The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning at 3:59 p.m. Saturday, effective for Staten Island between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Sunday.
“Flooding of up to half a foot above ground level is expected in vulnerable areas near the shore and coastline,” the weather service explains. “Another round of localized flooding is possible on Monday.”
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.”
Deciphering advisories, observations and warnings: Understanding weather 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. This does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.
Be prepared for flooding: Expert tips from the weather service for your safety
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:
Find 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 where sockets or cables are under water. This way you can avoid electrical accidents.
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 if it appears shallow. Even 6 inches 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.
