A Coastal Flood Advisory was issued by the National Weather Service at 2:48 p.m. Sunday, effective from 6 p.m. Monday through 6 a.m. Tuesday for Mobile and Baldwin counties.

“Light coastal flooding is expected,” describes the weather service. “A significant amount of water may cover portions of Fort Pickens Road, especially from about 2 miles east of Fort Pickens eastward to the west end of Pensacola Beach. The road often becomes impassable at this water level, especially if combined with high surf. Significant water on portions of Highway 399 through the Gulf Islands National Seashore, especially around the area. of Opal Beach, impacts significant portions of the Shell Belt and Coden Belt roads, which may result in limited travel and complete closures of parts of the county. Highway 1 near Weeks Bay may become impassable due to the. floodwaters Minor beach erosion may occur, mainly when combined with high waves.

“Flooding of land, parks and roads with only isolated road closures expected. Hazardous swimming and surfing conditions and localized beach erosion. Rip currents can carry even the best swimmers from shore to deeper waters” , explains the meteorological service. “If travel is necessary, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or into water of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect properties subject to flooding. Inexperienced swimmers should stay out out of the water due to dangerous surf conditions. Swim near a lifeguard If you are caught in a rip current, relax and do not float against the current. If you can, swim in one direction. following the shore. If you cannot escape, face the shore and call or signal for help.

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: understanding weather alerts

• Flash flood alert: act!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or already in progress. In flood-prone areas, it is crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden, violent flood that can develop within minutes or hours, and it can even occur in areas that are not currently experiencing precipitation.

• Flood alert: act!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is about to occur or is already underway.

• Flood Warning: Caution:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to be severe enough to issue a warning. However, this can cause significant inconvenience and, if care is not exercised, could lead to situations which could threaten life and/or property.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. This does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

Staying safe during a flood: recommendations from the weather service

Flooding can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or camp in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential safety instructions against flooding:

Move to higher ground:

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

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey promptly. Before leaving, secure your accommodation by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If weather permits, unplug your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards in the event of flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Rapid evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or popping sounds, evacuate immediately. Do not enter water that may carry an electrical charge.

Stay away from flood waters:

Never attempt to cross floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully knock you down.

Seek higher ground if you get stuck:

If you are trapped by moving water, get to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rain there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never cross water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can wash away most cars. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.