Update: Flash flood watch in place for Oregon until Friday evening triggered by intense rain

The National Weather Service issued an updated flash flood watch for Harney, Baker, and Malheur counties on Friday at 12:33 p.m., which is in force until 8 p.m.

According to the weather service, “There is a threat of flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall from thunderstorms through this evening.”

The weather service warns that “heavy rainfall could trigger flash flooding or debris flows in and near recent wildfire burn scars.” “You should monitor later forecasts and be prepared to take action should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.”

Breaking down weather alerts: advisories, watches, and warnings

• 
  Flash flood warning: Take action!
  

When a flash flood is either approaching or has already occurred, a warning is given. Moving to higher ground right away is essential in places that are prone to flooding. A flash flood is a quick, intense flood that can form in a matter of minutes to hours and even occur in places that aren’t currently receiving any rain.

• 
  Flood warning: Take action!
  

When flooding is about to occur or has already started, a flood warning is issued.

• 
  Flood advisory: Be aware:
  

When flooding is not predicted to become severe enough to warrant a warning, a flood advisory is issued. However, it still has the potential to be extremely inconvenient and, if careless, to result in circumstances that endanger life and/or property.

• 
  Flood watch: Be prepared:
  

When the weather is conducive to flooding, a flood watch is issued. Flooding is not guaranteed, but it is a possibility.

Be flood-ready: Expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

Knowing and adhering to the weather service’s flood safety recommendations can be extremely helpful when camping in low-lying areas or in places that are prone to flooding:

Go to a higher location:

Moving to higher ground is the first line of defense if you live in an area that floods easily or are camping in a low-lying area.

Observe evacuation directives:

Immediately comply with any evacuation orders issued by local authorities. Make sure your house is locked before you leave.

Cut off appliances and utilities:

Disconnect your appliances and utilities if you have the time. By taking this precaution, electrical dangers during flooding are reduced.

Avoid drowned places and flooding basements:

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

Quick evacuation to keep you safe:

Evacuate right away if you see sparks or hear popping, crackling, snapping, or buzzing noises. Avoid going into water that might be electrically charged.

Avoid going on foot in floodwaters:

Never try to cross flooding on foot. Six inches of quickly flowing water can knock you off your feet with force.

If you’re stuck, look for high ground:

If you find yourself caught by flowing water, get to the highest position you can and call 911 to get help.

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.

Rainy roadways ahead: Essential safety tips for heavy rain

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:

To keep a safe following distance behind the car in front of you, follow the two-second rule. To account for decreased traction and braking efficiency in heavy weather, give yourself an extra two seconds.

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:

On multilane highways, stay in the middle lanes to reduce the chance of hydroplaning because water tends to pool in the outer lanes.

Visibility is important.

Turn on your headlights to improve visibility in severe rain. Rain-stained windows can make it difficult to see cars in blind zones, so be especially alert for them.

Be cautious on slick roads:

Roads are slickest during the first half-hour of rain because of a combination of rain, oil, and filth. Be especially careful during this time.

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:

• 
  Heavy rain can overload the wiper blades. When visibility is so limited that the edges of the road or other vehicles cannot be seen at a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to ease up. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
  
• 
  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.

United Robots offers a service called Advance Local Weather Alerts that gathers the most recent information from the National Weather Service using machine learning.

About The Author