We have really been soaked lately by all the recent rains.

As a result several flood related weather advisories have been issued by the National Weather Service or in effect. Do you understand what all these statements and advisories mean? Below is a break down of the most common flood related statements.

FLOOD DEFINITIONS:

RIVER FLOOD- Occurs when heavy precipitation (sometimes accompanied by snow melt) fills river basins with water beyond the holding capacity of the river banks

FLASH FLOOD- Produced by very heavy rain in a short amount of time that creates a rapid flow of water over areas not prepared to handle the runoff. Most flooding deaths are the result of flash floods

COASTAL FLOOD- Caused by winds and waves generated by tropical storms, hurricanes, or strong mid-latitude cyclones that drives ocean water well inland. Coastal floods can produce beach erosion and damage to beach property

URBAN FLOOD- Urbanization increases runoff since concrete does not allow percolate of rain water. This type of flooding produces excess runoff that floods roads, basements and parking lots

NOAA WATCHES AND WARNINGS:

FLASH FLOOD WATCH- The synoptic conditions are conducive to produce localized flooding within the forecast area. Be on the lookout for flash flooding

FLASH FLOOD WARNING- Flooding is making travel extremely dangerous in some areas. If in a flood prone area, immediately take refuge to higher ground

FLASH FLOOD SAFETY:

1. Get out of areas that are subject to flooding
2. Do not drive through water of an unknown depth
3. Do not drive through moving water
4. If your vehicle stalls, seek higher ground
5. Be especially cautious at night since most flash flood deaths occur in automobiles at night

RIVER FLOOD SAFETY:

1. Know the risk factor for flooding at your residence
2. Store fresh drinking water
3. Have battery operated TV, radio, phone
4. Keep a stockpile of food that does not require electricity to cook or cool
5. Have automobile gas tanks full
6. Evacuate area when ordered