Floods are dangerous to both your family and your home. While you may think only the areas around rivers and lakes flood, urban flooding is n the rise. Many city sewer systems cannot keep up with heavy rains and snowmelt. It’s important to understand the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning. In addition to the terms watch and warning, there are two other flood-related terms you should know.
What Do Flood Watch and Flood Warning Mean?
A flood watch means that flooding is possible but not guaranteed. Stay alert for severe weather conditions in your area that could cause a flood. A flood warning means you should expect a flood near you soon. When the National Weather Service (NWS) issues a flood warning, take immediate action to protect your family.
What Are the Types of Flood Alerts?
It is important to know the difference between a flood watch and a flood warning, but there are two other flood alerts you should know as well. These are the four flood alerts the NWS will issue.
- Flood Advisory – A flood is unlikely but possible.
- Flood Watch – Flooding is possible but not guaranteed.
- Flood Warning – A flood will occur soon or is already happening.
- Flash Flood Warning – Dangerous flooding will occur, so you should seek high ground immediately.
What Is a Flood Advisory?
A flood advisory means there is the potential for minor flooding throughout the area. Often this is most common in low spots and areas near lakes, rivers, and streams, but any area may flood if the conditions are right. If the NWS issues a flood advisory, make sure you pay attention to the latest weather reports as a precaution.
What Is a Flood Watch?
A flood watch means the conditions are right for flooding, so pay attention to weather updates. If the NWS issues a flood watch, stock up on food, blankets, batteries, and first aid supplies to keep your family safe. In the case of hurricanes and severe storms, you should prepare for evacuation.
What Is a Flood Warning?
A flood warning means flooding will occur and you need to take immediate action to remain safe. Stay above ground and follow weather reports regarding the store. If you are in low-lying areas, move to high ground. For severe storms, the NWS may issue an evacuation order.
What Is a Flash Flood Warning?
Flood flood warnings mean sudden, violent, and fast-moving floods will occur or are already happening in your area. Seek high ground immediately and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.
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