Coastal Flood Warning for Monmouth County through early Monday evening

At 3:55 a.m. Saturday, the National Weather Service issued a flood warning effective at 5 p.m. through 5 p.m. Monday for Monmouth County.

According to the weather service, up to a foot of flooding above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near the coastline and tidal waterways.

“At this level, widespread road flooding is occurring in coastal and bay communities and along inland tidal waterways. Many roads will become impassable. Damage to vulnerable structures is possible. Rip currents can sweep even the most adept swimmers away from shore and into deeper water,” the weather service explained. “Take appropriate steps to protect flood-prone property. If travel is necessary, do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Swim near a lifeguard. If you are caught in a rip current, relax and float. Do not swim against the current. If possible, swim in a direction that follows the shoreline. If you cannot escape, look toward shore and call or wave for help.”

Your Guide to Weather Alerts: Advisories, Warnings and Alerts

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or has already occurred. In areas prone to flooding, it is critical to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and severe flood that can develop within minutes to hours, and can even occur in areas that are not currently experiencing rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when there is an imminent threat of flooding or flooding is occurring.

• Flood Warning: Be on your guard:

A flood advisory is issued when no flooding is expected that would require a warning. Nevertheless, it can still cause considerable disruption and, without caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood Warning: Be Prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favourable for flooding. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it indicates that the possibility exists.

When Floods Strike: Weather Service Guidelines for Your Protection

Flooding can be a major hazard, 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 guidelines:

Search higher up:

If you are in an area prone to flooding, or if you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground first.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey it immediately. Secure your home by locking it before leaving.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution will minimize electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or rooms that are flooded with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or popping sounds, evacuate immediately. Avoid water that may be charged with electricity.

Do not walk in flood water:

Never try to walk through flood water. Even 6 inches of fast-moving water can violently blow you off your feet.

If you get stuck, seek higher ground:

If you become trapped by flowing water, go to the highest possible point and contact emergency services by calling 112.

During periods of heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is critical to avoid driving through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of flowing water. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service from United Robots that uses machine learning to collect the latest data from the National Weather Service.