NY weather: Flood watch for Niagara and Erie counties until early Tuesday morning

The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for Niagara and Erie counties on Monday at 2:35 p.m., which was in effect from 4 p.m. until Tuesday at 4 a.m.

According to the weather service, “Flooding caused by ice jams or ice shoves is possible.”

“Lake Erie is experiencing ice movement as a result of strong southwesterly winds and rising water levels brought on by a lake seiche. Along the immediate shores of Lake Erie, ice may be forced onshore. An ice jam can also form when ice rushes down the Niagara River. The weather service warns that flooding along the Niagara River on Grand Island could occur if this occurs. “You should keep an eye on upcoming forecasts and stay vigilant for any potential flood warnings. Residents in high-risk regions near the Niagara River and the shoreline should be ready to act if flooding occurs.

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

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  Flash flood warning: Take action!
  

When a flash flood is approaching or already happening, a warning is sent. Get to high ground right away if you’re in a flood-prone location. A flash flood is a quick, intense flood that can form in a matter of minutes to hours. Even in places that don’t get rain right away, flash floods can happen.

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  Flood warning: Take action!
  

When flooding is expected or is happening, a flood warning is issued.

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  Flood advisory: Be aware:
  

When flooding is not predicted to be severe enough to warrant a warning, a flood advisory is issued. But if care is not taken, it could result in circumstances that endanger life and/or property and cause a great deal of discomfort.

• 
  Flood watch: Be prepared:
  

When the weather is conducive to flooding, a flood watch is issued. Although it doesn’t ensure flooding will happen, it does indicate that it is a potential.

Weathering the storm: Flood safety guidelines from the weather service

Floods can be a serious hazard, particularly if you live in a flood-prone location or camp in a low-lying area. The weather service provides crucial flood protection instructions to protect you:

Go to a higher location:

Moving to higher ground should be your first course of action if you’re camping in a low-lying location or in an area that is prone to flooding.

Respect evacuation directives:

Respond quickly to any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Secure your home by locking it before you leave.

Cut off appliances and utilities:

Disconnect your appliances and utilities if you have the time. By doing this, the possibility of electrical risks during floods is decreased.

Steer clear of waterlogged regions and basements:

Stay away from rooms with electrical outlets or cords that are submerged in water or basements. Electrical accident prevention is essential.

Quickly leave for your safety:

Evacuate right away if you see sparks or hear popping, crackling, buzzing, or snapping sounds. Steer clear of any water that might be electrically charged.

Avoid going on foot in floodwaters:

Even if floodwaters seem shallow, you should never try to go over them. You can be swept off your feet with power by just 6 inches of swift-moving water.

When stuck, look for higher ground:

If you find yourself caught by flowing water, move to the highest spot you can and dial 911 to reach rescue personnel.

Flooding is more likely to occur during times of heavy rainfall, especially in low-lying and flood-prone locations. Driving through any water on the road, even if it appears to be shallow, must be avoided. The weather service claims that 12 inches of flowing water is enough to sweep away the majority of autos. Put your safety first by being aware and ready.

Driving through downpours: Safety guidelines for wet roads

Roads can become dangerous when it rains. Keep yourself updated and heed these weather service recommendations to stay safe during periods of intense precipitation:

Watch out for flooding rivers:

Avoid parking or strolling close to culverts or drainage ditches during periods of intense precipitation, as the swift-moving water can be quite dangerous.

Keep your distances from other vehicles safe:

Keep a safe distance from the automobile ahead of you by following the two-second rule, and give yourself an extra two seconds if it’s raining a lot.

Slow down and drive carefully:

It’s crucial to slow down on wet roads. To avoid sliding, reduce the accelerator gradually and don’t brake suddenly.

Pick your lane carefully:

Water tends to pool in the outside lanes, so stick to the central ones.

Put visibility first:

Turn on your headlights to improve visibility in severe rain. Rain-stained windows can hide cars in blind zones, so be cautious.

Be cautious on slick roads:

During the first half hour after the rain starts, exercise additional caution. The road becomes slick when water combines with dirt and oil on the surface.

Stay a safe distance away from big cars:

Avoid following buses or big vehicles too closely. Their big tires produce a mist that blurs your eyesight. Additionally, be cautious when passing them; if you have to, pass swiftly and securely.

Be mindful of your wipers:

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  Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots.
  
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  When stopping by the roadside is your only option, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers of your position.
  

You may greatly lower dangers and protect your health when it rains a lot by adhering to these safety precautions. To ensure a safe and sound voyage, keep yourself updated on weather conditions and follow local authorities’ instructions.

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