TALLAHASSEE – Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) officials urge residents and visitors to be aware and use caution this weekend as a flash flood watch has been issued for North Florida. A watch means that there is a potential for a flash flooding event in the designated areas. You should take the necessary steps to prepare your family and property for possible impacts. Rainfall totals are expected to be 5 to 7 inches with heavier amounts in isolated areas.“A stalled frontal boundary, tropical moisture from the south and other conditions are conducive for heavy rainfall across North Florida,” says FDEM Meteorologist Brad Schaaf. “Primary threats from this weather system include flooding, gusty winds and frequent lightning. It is important to monitor local forecasts and follow directions from local officials.”
To avoid getting caught in a flood, follow these safety rules:
- If a flood is likely in your area, you should:
- Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio or your local news sources for vital weather-related information.
- Be aware that flash flooding can occur. If there is any possibility of a flash flood, move immediately to higher ground. Do not wait for instructions to move.
- Be aware of stream, drainage channels, canyons and other areas known to flood suddenly. Flash floods can occur in these areas with or without typical warnings such as rain clouds or heavy rain
If you have to leave your home, remember these evacuation tips:
- Secure your home. If possible, bring in outdoor furniture and move essentials to an upper floor.
- Turn off utilities at the main switches or valves if instructed to do so. Disconnect electrical appliances. Do not touch electrical equipment if you are wet or standing in water.
- Do not walk through moving water. Six inches of moving water can make you fall. If you have to walk in water, walk where the water is not moving. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
- NEVER drive into flooded areas. If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers or creeks.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize potential flood dangers
For more information about emergency response in Florida, the 2013 Hurricane Season, and how you can to Get A Plan! visitFloridaDisaster.org. Follow FDEM on Twitter at @FLSERT, on Facebook at Facebook.com/FloridaSERT andFacebook.com/KidsGetAPlan.
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