The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning at 3:43 a.m. Sunday, effective Monday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. for Staten Island.
The weather service explains: “If you must travel, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around roadblocks or through waters of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect property at risk of flooding.”
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.
Safe behaviour during floods: Recommendations from the weather service
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:
Find higher ground:
If you are in a flood-prone area or camping in a low-lying area, the first step is to move to higher ground.
Follow the 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 precaution will minimize electrical hazards during flooding.
Avoid 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.
Stay away from floods:
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.
Heavy rain can cause 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. Be sure to stay safe by being 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.
