The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning at 3:55 a.m. Saturday, effective from 5 p.m. through 5 p.m. Monday for Atlantic County.

The weather service says: “Flooding of up to one foot above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near coasts and tidal waterways.”

“At this level, widespread flooding will occur in coastal and bay communities and along inland tidal waterways. Many roads will become impassable. Damage to vulnerable buildings may occur,” the weather service explains. “Take necessary measures to protect buildings at risk of flooding. If you must move, do not drive around barriers or through waters of unknown depth.”

Weather alert breakdown: advisories, observations and warnings

• Flash flood warning: take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or is already occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, get to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden, severe flood that can develop from minutes to hours. It is even possible to experience flash flooding in areas where there is no immediate rain.

• Flood warning: take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or already underway.

• Flood warning: Please note:

A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to warrant a warning, but may cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, may result in situations which may threaten life and/or property.

• Flood warning: Be prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favourable for flooding. This does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Weather Service Flood Safety Guidelines: Weathering the Storm

Flooding can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the Weather Service offers important flood safety guidelines:

Move to higher ground:

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

Follow evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey it immediately. Secure your home by locking it before leaving.

Disconnect utilities and equipment:

If time permits, unplug your utilities and appliances. This will reduce the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or rooms in contact with water where there are electrical outlets or cables. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

For safety reasons, evacuate immediately:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or banging noises, evacuate immediately. Do not enter water that may be live.

Avoid going into flood water:

Never attempt to walk through flood water. Even 15 cm of fast-flowing water can sweep you off your feet with full force.

Seek higher ground if you are trapped:

If you become trapped in running water, go to the highest possible point and call 911.

Flooding can occur during heavy rain, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear deep. According to the weather service, as little as 30 cm of water is enough to sweep away most cars. Your safety is paramount by staying informed and prepared.

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