This picture shows how quickly water can leave a flooded stream an flood the area around it. Photograph courtesy of Warren Faidley at Weatherstock.com

Floods and Flash Floods

This photograph show how quickly flash flood waters can move. Photograph courtesy of Warren Faidley at Weatherstock.com

It isn't unusual for people to see that a flood watch or warning has been issued for their area. Many people don't know how to react when they are issued, however. Below shows the different flood watches and warnings that weather stations issue and how to react when they are. Flood Watch- A flood watch means flooding is possible in and around the watch area. If a flood watch is issued you should be prepared in case a warning is issued. Getting prepared may involve moving valuable items to higher ground. Flood Warning- A Flood Warning means that flooding is occurring or is definitely about to. If a flood warning is issued stay tuned to a weather radio or the weather channel. If they advise to, don’t hesitate to evacuate immediately and move to higher ground. Flash Flood Watch- A flash flood watch means that a flash flood is possible in an around the watch area. If a flash flood watch is issued its important to be ready to move to higher ground immediately and act quickly. Flash Flood Warning- A flash flood warning means that a flash flood is occurring or is about to happen. If a flash flood warning is issued you should seek higher ground immediately, seconds make a big difference in a flash flood. Avoid rivers, streams and drainage systems. If you are in your car during a flash flood do not remain in it and climb to higher ground immediately.

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