At 1:31 a.m. Monday, the National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch in effect until 4 p.m. for North Erie and South Erie, as well as Niagara, Orleans, Genesee, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus and Allegany counties.
The weather service says, “Flooding from excessive rainfall remains possible.”
“Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, streams, creeks and other low-lying and flood-prone areas. The greatest threat of flooding will be along creeks and rivers in the Buffalo area. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas,” the weather service adds. “You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in flood-prone areas should be prepared to respond should flooding occur.”
Breakdown of weather alerts: alerts, watches and warnings
- Flash Flood Warning: Get Started!
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or has already occurred. In areas prone to flooding, it is essential to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and violent flood that can develop within minutes to hours and can occur even in areas that are not currently raining.
- Flood Warning: Act!
A flood warning is issued when floods are on the verge of occurring or already underway.
- Flood Warning: Keep in mind:
A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to issue a warning. However, it can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, can lead to situations that may endanger life and/or property.
- Flood Watch: Be Prepared:
A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean that there will be flooding, but it is possible.
Be prepared for flooding: Expert advice from the weather service for your safety
In flood-prone areas or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the Met Office’s flood safety guidelines can save a life:
Look for higher places:
If you are in an area prone to flooding or if you are camping in a low-lying area, the first step is to move to higher ground.
Follow evacuation orders:
When local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey immediately. Secure your home by locking it before you leave.
Disconnect utilities and appliances:
If time permits, unplug your networks and appliances. This measure minimizes the risk of electric shock during flooding.
Avoid basements and submerged areas:
Avoid basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cables are submerged in water. This helps prevent electric shocks.
Rapid evacuation for your safety:
Evacuate immediately if you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, cracking or cracking. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.
Stay away from floods:
Never try to walk through flood water. Even just 6 inches of fast moving water can violently knock you off your feet.
Seek high ground if you are trapped:
If you become trapped in moving water, get to the highest point possible and call 911 to contact emergency services.
Flooding is possible during heavy rain, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. According to the weather service, it only takes 12 inches of flowing water to wash away most cars. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
Driving in the rain: Safety instructions for wet roads
Heavy rainfall can lead to flooding if it is prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff may be a result of saturated soil and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these weather service recommendations to stay safe in heavy rain:
Beware of swollen waterways:
During heavy rain, do not park or walk near culverts or drainage ditches where rushing water can pose a serious hazard.
Observe safe driving distances:
Use the two-second rule to keep a safe distance from the car in front of you and give yourself an extra two seconds in heavy rain.
Reduce speed and drive carefully:
On wet roads, reducing speed is essential. Ease off the throttle gradually and avoid hard braking to avoid skidding.
Choose your lane wisely:
Stick to the center lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of aquaplaning, as water tends to collect in the outer lanes.
Visibility matters:
Turn on your headlights and keep an eye out for other vehicles behind you and in your blind spots, as it’s especially hard to see through rain-splattered windows.
Beware of slippery roads:
The first half hour of rain is when the roads are the most slippery due to the mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Take extra care during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid the back entrance and drive carefully.
Attention to windshield wipers:
- Overloaded wiper blades can obstruct visibility. If the rain is seriously impairing your vision, stop and wait for the conditions to improve. Seek shelter in rest areas or sheltered areas.
- If your only option is to stop on the side of the road, position the vehicle as far away from the road as possible, ideally behind barriers. Leave your headlights on and activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers of your position.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can go a long way in keeping you safe on the road. Remember to be informed of weather conditions and seek advice from local authorities for safe travel.
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