The National Weather Service issued an updated coastal flood warning at 4:34 p.m. Saturday, effective from 6 p.m. Sunday through midnight Monday for Cape May County.
The weather service adds: “Flooding of up to one foot above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near coastlines and tidal waterways.”
“At this water level, flooding will occur on the most vulnerable roads in coastal and bay communities, and along inland tidal waterways. Some roads will require partial or full closure. Surf rip currents can push even the best swimmers away from shore and into deeper waters,” the weather service describes. “If you must travel, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barriers or through waters of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect flood-prone properties. Swim near a lifeguard. If you get caught in a surf rip current, relax and let yourself drift. Do not swim against the current. If possible, swim in a direction that follows the shoreline. If you cannot escape, turn toward shore and call or wave for help.”
Understanding the differences between 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 reach a level of severity that would warrant a warning. However, such a warning may cause significant inconvenience and, if ignored, may result in situations threatening life and/or property.
- Flood warning: Be prepared:
A flood warning is issued when conditions are favourable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but indicates that the possibility exists.
Stay safe during floods: Expert tips from the weather service
In flood-prone regions or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service’s flood safety guidelines can be life-saving:
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 basements and flooded areas:
Avoid basements or rooms where sockets or cables are under water. This way you can avoid electrical accidents.
Fast evacuation for your safety:
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 are trapped in running water, go to the highest possible point and dial 911 to contact emergency services.
Heavy rain can create a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never attempt to drive through water on the road, no matter how deep it appears. According to the weather service, as little as 30 cm of water can sweep away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.
Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service from United Robots that uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
