Severe Weather Awareness Week

With the sounds of heavy rain bearing down on the CRESA rooftop this morning, the National Weather Service would like to remind us all that May 2-7th is Severe Weather Awareness Week!

Monday, May 3rd, is ironically the day to consider Flash Flood Awareness.

To stay informed about a flash flood listen for:

Flash Flood Watch
This tells you that flash flooding is possible within the watch area. You should remain alert and be ready to evacuate on a moment's notice.

Flash Flood Warnings
This tells you that flash flooding has been reported or is imminent. When a flash flood warning is issued for your area act quickly to save yourself. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately. Go to higher ground or climb to safety. Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.

Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory
This tells you that flooding of small streams...streets and low lying areas such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains, is occurring, but rainfall is not expected to produce a flash flood situation.

The following basic flash flood safety rules should be observed when you see flooding or hear about a flash flood warning:

• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
• If you are near a river be aware of water levels and be prepared to take action to move to higher ground if river levels rise.
• Do not enter areas that are already flooded.
• Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot when the water is at or above your knees.
• If walking or fishing along a river, be aware that erosion from swift running water can cause river banks to collapse.
• Never let your children play around high water, storm drains, viaducts or arroyos.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto related. While driving your automobile look out for flooding at highway dips, bridges and low areas. Two feet of water will carry away most automobiles. Never attempt to drive over a flooded road. The road bed may be washed out under the water and you could be stranded or trapped. If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rising water may engulf the vehicle and sweep it away.

THE BEST ADVICE IF YOU ARE IN A VEHICLE?

TURN AROUND, DON'T DROWN.

Remember this video that we shared with you from YouTube back in April 2009? It's always important to respect the power of water!