The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flood warnings across multiple locations, alerting residents to the potential dangers posed by rising waters and urging them to take precautionary measures.
On Saturday at 7:41 p.m., the NWS issued warnings for Sumter County, identifying minor flooding anticipated along the Sucarnoochee River at Livingston. "Minor flooding is forecast for Sucarnoochee River at Livingston. At 21.0 feet, overflow of low-lying agricultural lands increases," said the service. They cautioned, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles." This warning will remain valid from Monday 3 a.m. until Thursday midnight.
Further compounded by heavy rainfall, the NWS Medford (OR) updated flood warnings on Saturday at 9:25 p.m., forecasting urban and small stream flooding for parts of northern California and southern Oregon. Rivers, creeks, and streams are expected to rise dangerously due to runoff from previous rainfall. According to the NWS, "Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is imminent or occurring. Streams continue to rise due to excess runoff from earlier rainfall." The service repeated the stark reminder to motorists: "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."
North Carolina is not exempt from these flood threats, as Henderson County officials recently announced flooding risks for the French Broad River at Blantyre. This marks the first flood warning issued for the area since Hurricane Helene, as heavy rains threaten to raise water levels. Officials have urged caution near low-lying areas, asserting, "While severe flooding is not expected at this time, residents should exercise caution, particularly along low-lying areas near the river."
Meanwhile, Northern New York isn’t taking chances, as the NWS has issued a lakeshore flood warning for Erie and Chautauqua counties. The urgency conveyed is clear with the alert: "The rapid rise in water levels at the eastern end of Lake Erie will result in lakeshore flooding along the Lake Erie shore. Flooding is likely along Route 5..." Residents are warned to avoid breakwaters and beaches where high waves can crash unexpectedly.
For those living along flood-prone locations, the NWS offers some key safety guidelines: move to higher ground immediately if threatened; adhere to evacuation orders; disconnect all utilities and appliances before leaving, if time allows; and never attempt to wade through floodwaters. "Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet,” warns the service.
These alerts come with driving recommendations amid heavy rainfall. Visibility often drops and pavement becomes treacherous; hence, NWS advises turning on headlights even during daylight hours to improve visibility and make one's vehicle more noticeable to others on the road. Drivers are encouraged to maintain safe distances and exercise extreme caution to avoid slip-ups.
Hydroplaning is another concern for unwary drivers, which occurs when water accumulation prevents tires from making contact with the road surface. To counteract hydroplaning and regain control, drivers should ease off the accelerator, steer gently, and allow tires to reconnect with the road. The NWS emphasizes the importance of vehicle maintenance, such as ensuring adequate tire tread depth.
With predictions of continued rain and potential flooding, maintaining vigilance and adherence to weather warnings is more important than ever. Residents across alert regions are encouraged to keep informed and prepared for any changes as weather conditions evolve.
The alerts, issued to various locations, underline the pressing issue of managing safety during floods, emphasizing the need for readiness and awareness—principles every resident should prioritize during this precarious season.