A flash flood warning has been issued for Jackson County through midday Tuesday

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning Tuesday at 7:09 a.m. in Jackson County.

The weather service adds: “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood fatalities occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”

This warning is in effect until 11:15 a.m

Breaking Weather Alerts: Advisories, Watches and Warnings

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

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

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is announced when flooding is about to occur or is already underway.

• Flood Warning: Pay attention:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level that would require a warning to be issued. However, it can still cause significant inconvenience and, without caution, lead to life- and/or property-threatening situations.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are conducive to flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it indicates that the possibility exists.

Weathering the Storm: Flood Safety Guidelines 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 life-saving:

1. Move to higher ground:

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

2. Adherence to evacuation orders:

• If local authorities issue an evacuation order, you must respond immediately. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

3. Disconnect utilities and appliances:

• If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution reduces electrical risks during floods.

4. Stay away from flooded basements and flooded areas:

• Stay away from basements or rooms with flooded outlets or electrical cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

5. Immediate safety evacuation:

• If you notice a spark or hear buzzing, clicking or popping sounds, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be electrostatically charged.

6. Refrain from walking in flood water:

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

7. Look for higher ground if you are trapped:

• If trapped by moving water, head to the highest available point and contact emergency services by dialing 911.

During heavy rains, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the National Weather Service, at least 12 inches of fast-moving water could carry most cars away. Stay safe by being prepared and reporting.

Navigating on rainy roads: wet weather safety tips

When heavy rain falls, the risk of flooding and hazardous driving conditions increases. Whether it’s prolonged rainfall or rapid runoff, preparation is essential. Here are some valuable safety tips from the weather service to ensure you stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of rapid water flow:

• In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near sewers or drainage ditches, as fast-moving water can pose a serious hazard.

Maintain safe driving distances:

• Follow the two-second rule to maintain a safe following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. In heavy rain, allow an additional 2 seconds of clearance to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and be careful:

• On wet roads, deceleration is crucial. Gradually ease the accelerator pedal and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your path wisely:

• Stick to the middle lanes to reduce the risk of aquaplaning. Exterior walkways are more susceptible to water accumulation.

Setting vision priorities:

• Enhance your visibility during heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be especially vigilant for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-stained windows can obscure them.

Beware of slippery roads:

• The first half hour of rain is when the roads are smoothest due to a mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Use extreme caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

• Do not follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray generated by their large tires reduces your visibility. Be careful when passing them too; If you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Take care of the windshield wipers in your car:

• Overloaded wiper blades can obstruct visibility. If rain severely limits your visibility, stop and wait for conditions to improve. Resort to rest areas or protected places.
• If the side of the road is your only option, drive as far away as possible, preferably past the end of the guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and turn on your emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your location.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a big difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed of the weather conditions and listen to local authorities’ advice for a safe trip.

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