NEW Weather: Coastal Flood Statement for Suffolk County for Thursday

The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood advisory at 17:27 Wednesday, valid Thursday between 6 and 10 for Suffolk County.

The weather service states, “Less than half a foot of inundation above ground level is expected mainly in the most vulnerable areas near the waterfront and shoreline.”

“Some water on low-lying roads and property,” the weather service describes. “Do not drive through flooded roads.”

Understand the differences between advisories, watches and warnings

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when a flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it is crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent flood that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas that are not currently experiencing rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is about to happen or is already underway.

• Flood Advisory: Please be aware of:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity that necessitates a warning. Nevertheless, it can still cause significant inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

Weathering the Storm: Flood Safety Guidance from the Weather Service

In flood-prone areas or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the Weather Service’s flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you live in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.

Comply with evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Before you leave, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect supplies and appliances:

If time permits, unplug your supplies and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and sunken areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged sockets or wires. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid water that may be charged with electricity.

Stay away from flooding:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of fast moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

In the event that you are trapped by moving water, go to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It only takes 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the weather service. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Navigating Rainy Roads: Wet Weather Safety Tips

When heavy rain hits, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these weather service guidelines to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Watch out for swollen streams:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Observe safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow an additional two seconds in heavy rain.

Reduce speed and drive carefully:

On wet roads, slowing down is essential. Gradually release the accelerator and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your course carefully:

Stay towards the middle lanes – water tends to collect in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Turn on your headlights and be careful of other vehicles behind and in blind spots, as they are especially difficult to see through rain-splattered windows.

Beware of slippery roads:

The first half hour of rain is when the roads are the slickest due to a mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Exercise extra caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgates and pass them quickly and safely.

Take care of your windshield wipers:

• Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to subside. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
• If the roadside is your only option, pull as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and flash your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your position.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to keep informed of the weather conditions and follow the instructions of the local authorities for a safe journey.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.