The National Weather Service issued a coastal flood statement at 5:21 a.m. Sunday, in effect from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. Sunday for Hudson, Essex and Union counties.

The weather service adds, “Up to 1/2 foot of flooding above ground level is expected in vulnerable nearshore and offshore areas.”

“Brief minor flooding of the most vulnerable locations near the shoreline and shoreline,” the weather service describes. “Don’t drive on flooded roads.”

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: Understanding weather alerts

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In areas prone to flooding, it is essential to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and violent flood that can develop within minutes to hours and can happen even in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

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

• Flood Advisory: Be aware of:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity that requires a warning. However, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without caution, can lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:

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

Navigating the Flood: The Weather Service’s Flood Safety Guidelines for Weathering the Storm

Flooding can be a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential flood safety instructions:

Move to higher ground:

If you live in a flood-prone region or camp on low-lying ground, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed them promptly. Before you leave, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

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

Avoid basements and sunken areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cables. Preventing electrical accidents is essential.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be electrically charged.

Refrain from walking in flood waters:

Never attempt to walk through flood waters. Even just 6 inches of fast moving water can knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground when trapped:

If you become trapped in moving water, get to the highest point possible and call 911 to contact emergency services.

During periods of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas, the risk of flooding increases. Remember this crucial tip: Never try to drive through water on the road, even if it looks shallow. According to the weather service, just 12 inches of fast-flowing water can wash away most vehicles. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Navigating Rainy Roads: Wet Weather Safety Tips

Heavy rains can lead to flooding if prolonged or if there is excessive runoff. Excessive runoff may be the result of saturated soil and/or rainfall intensity. Follow these recommendations from the weather service to stay safe in heavy rain:

Beware of swollen waterways:

In heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near drains or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can be a serious hazard.

Keep driving distances safe:

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

Slow down and drive carefully:

On wet roads, reducing speed is essential. Release the accelerator pedal gradually and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stay in the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to accumulate in the outer lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Improve your visibility in heavy rain by activating your headlights. Be especially alert for vehicles in your blind spots, as rain-soaked windows can hide them.

Beware of slippery roads:

Be especially careful in the first half hour after the rain starts. Dirt and oil on the road surface mix with the water to make the road slippery.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Do not follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Be careful when you pass them too; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Attention to the windshield wipers:

• Overloaded wiper blades can impede visibility. If rain severely limits your vision, stop and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge in rest areas or protected places.
• If the side of the road is your only option, pull over as far as possible, preferably over 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 of your position.

By following these safety precautions, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your well-being when it rains heavily. Stay aware of weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your trip 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.