Henry County under flash flood warning through Wednesday evening

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for Henry County at 4:49 p.m. Wednesday, in effect until 8 p.m.

“At 4:49 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms with heavy rain in the warning area. 1 to 2 inches of rain fell. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin soon,” the weather service said. “Flash flooding of small streams and creeks, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses, and other poor drainage and low-lying areas.”

The warning applies to the following towns: Abbeville, Fort Gaines, Newville, Haleburg, Willis Crossroads, Abbeville Municipal A/P, Hardwickburg, Graball, Murphy Station, Shorterville, Screamer, Barnes, Lawrenceville, Dancey, Miller, Capps, Hayes, Balkum, Scottsboro Crossroads and Walter F. George Lock And Dam.

The weather service says: “Turn around, don’t drown, when you encounter flooded roads. Most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. Report any flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and ask them to pass this information on to the National Weather Service when you can do so safely.”

Decoding Warnings, Alerts, and Messages: Understanding Weather Alerts

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or already occurring. In areas prone to flooding, immediate movement to higher ground is essential. A flash flood is a sudden, violent flood that can develop in minutes to hours, and can even occur in areas that are not currently receiving rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

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

• Flood Warning: Beware:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to issue a warning. However, it can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not taken, can lead to situations that may endanger life and/or property.

• Flood Warning: Be prepared:

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

Flood navigation: weather service flood safety guidelines for surviving the storm

Floods can be a serious threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or camp in a low-lying area. To help keep you safe, the weather service offers basic flood safety guidelines:

Seek higher ground:

If you are in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, your first step should be to move to higher ground.

Follow evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, you should comply immediately. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect media and devices:

If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements and areas where water has flooded electrical outlets or wiring. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or crackling sounds, evacuate immediately. Avoid water that may be charged with electricity.

Avoid flood waters:

Never try to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of fast-flowing water can knock you off your feet.

If you get trapped, look for a higher spot:

If you become trapped in running water, get to high ground and call 911 to request emergency services.

During heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding is greater, especially in low-lying, flood-prone areas. Always remember to never drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it seems. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-moving water can sweep away most vehicles. Stay safe by being informed and prepared.

Driving in heavy rain: basic safety measures on wet roads

Heavy rains can lead to flooding if they are prolonged or if excessive runoff occurs. Excessive runoff can be the result of ground saturation and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these weather service recommendations to stay safe during heavy rains:

Beware of rapid water flow:

Avoid parking or walking near culverts and drainage ditches as fast-flowing water during heavy rain could sweep you away.

Keep a safe distance while driving:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure a safe following distance in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive carefully:

On wet roads, reducing speed is key. Gradually release the gas pedal and avoid heavy braking to avoid skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay in the middle lane – water often collects in the outside lanes.

Visibility matters:

Improve visibility during heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Be especially vigilant for vehicles in your blind spots, as rain-covered windows can obscure them.

Beware of slippery roads:

Be especially careful during the first half hour after the rain begins. Dirt and oil on the road surface mix with the water, making the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Don’t follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray from their large tires reduces visibility. Also, be careful when passing them; if you have to pass them, do so quickly and safely.

Remember your wipers:

• Overloaded wipers can make it difficult to see. If rain is seriously impeding visibility, pull over to the side of the road and wait until conditions improve. Seek shelter in parking lots or sheltered areas.
• If the only option is the hard shoulder, pull as far as you can, preferably beyond the end of the guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and use your hazard warning lights to warn other drivers of your position.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce your risk and ensure your well-being during heavy rain. Keep up to date with weather conditions and follow local government advice to ensure your trip is safe.

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