Update: West Georgia is under a flood warning Friday and Saturday

At 10:12 p.m. Thursday, the National Weather Service issued an updated flood warning effective from 1 p.m. Friday through 11 a.m. Saturday. The warning applies to Chambers, Lee, Harris and Troup counties.

The NWS describes: “Minor flooding is forecast for the Chattahoochee River at West Point.”

The NWS adds: “If you encounter flooded roadways, turn around and avoid drowning. “Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Deciphering Notices, Watches and Warnings: Understanding Weather Alerts

• Flash flood warning: take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it is important to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and intense flood that can develop within minutes to hours and can occur even in areas where there is currently no rain.

• Flood warning: take action!

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

• Flood Warning: Be Aware:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity requiring a warning. However, it can cause considerable inconvenience and, if not exercised caution, could potentially lead to life-threatening and/or property-threatening situations.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It is not a guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

Staying safe during a flood: NWS recommendations

In flood-prone regions or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following NWS flood prevention guidelines can be life-saving:

Go to a higher level:

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

Follow the evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Secure your home by locking it before you leave.

Disconnect utilities and devices:

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

Avoid basements and flooded areas:

Stay away from basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Evacuate immediately for safety reasons:

If you notice sparks or hear any humming, crackling, cracking or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Do not enter water that may be electrically charged.

Stay away from flooding:

Never attempt to walk through flood water, even if it appears shallow. Just 15 centimeters of water with high currents can force you off your feet.

Find high ground if trapped:

If you become trapped by flowing water, reach the highest point possible and call 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, especially in low-lying and flood-prone regions. Always remember to never drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it may be. According to the NWS, most vehicles can be swept away in just 1 foot of fast-moving water. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Mastering wet roads: safety tips in heavy rain

When heavy rain begins, the risk of flooding and dangerous driving conditions increases. Whether it’s persistent rainfall or rapid runoff, it’s important to be prepared. Here are some valuable safety tips from the NWS to help you stay safe during heavy rain:

Beware of swelling waterways:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches where fast-moving water can pose a serious hazard.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Follow the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front. In heavy rain, allow an additional two seconds of travel to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Slow down and stay careful:

On wet roads, slowing down is paramount. To prevent skidding, gradually ease off the accelerator pedal and avoid sudden braking.

Choose your lane wisely:

On multi-lane roads, stay in the middle lanes to minimize the risk of aquaplaning, as water often accumulates in the outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Improve your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Be aware of vehicles in blind spots as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Be careful of slippery roads:

During the first half hour of rain, the roads are most slippery due to a mix of rain, dirt and oil. Be particularly careful during this time.

Maintain a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can obscure your visibility from tire spray. Avoid traffic jams and pass through them quickly and safely.

Pay attention to your windshield wipers:

• Overloaded wiper blades can impair visibility. If rain severely reduces your visibility, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek shelter in rest areas or sheltered areas.
• If the side of the road is your only option, drive off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers to your position.

During heavy rain, these precautions can go a long way toward ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to keep up to date with weather conditions and follow advice from local authorities to ensure a safe journey.

Source: The National Weather Service