An updated flood watch was issued by the National Weather Service at 10:54 p.m. Friday, in effect until 5 a.m. Sunday for the south-central Oregon coast.

The weather service comments: “Flooding is possible”.

“At 20.0 feet, expect minor flooding of pastures in low-lying areas along and near the Coquille River. Cattle and other farm animals grazing in the floodplain may be affected,” the statement said. meteorological service. “Stay tuned for future developments by listening to your local radio, television or NOAA Weather Radio for more information. If you are in the watch area, remain alert for possible flooding. Residents and those who have interests near the river should monitor rising water levels and prepare for possible flood warnings Saturday morning at 7 a.m.

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 imminent or in progress.

• 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 not careful, could lead to situations that 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

In areas prone to flooding or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service’s flood safety guidelines can save your life:

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:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it 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 submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Evacuate quickly for safety reasons:

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

Avoid walking in flood waters:

Never attempt to cross flood waters. 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, reach the highest point possible and call 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is important to never attempt to cross water on the road, regardless of its depth. According to the weather service, just 12 inches of rushing water can wash away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Mastering Wet Roads: Safety Tips in Heavy Rain

When heavy rain falls, the risk of flooding and dangerous roads increases. Here’s your weather service guide to staying safe during downpours:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

Use the two-second rule to maintain a safe distance from the car in front of you and allow two extra seconds in heavy rain.

Slow down and stay safe:

On wet roads, it is essential to slow down. Release the accelerator gradually and avoid sudden braking to avoid skidding.

Choose your path wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as water tends to collect in the outside lanes.

Prioritize visibility:

Turn on your headlights and watch out for other vehicles behind you and in blind spots, as they are especially difficult to see through rain-splattered windows.

Be careful of slippery roads:

The first half hour of rain is when roads are most slippery due to a mixture of rain, grime and oil. Exercise extreme caution during this time.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Do not follow large trucks or buses too closely. The spray created by their large tires reduces your vision. Also be careful when passing them; if you must pass, do so quickly and safely.

Pay attention to your windshield 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 from a safe distance, it is time to pull over and wait for the rain to subside. It is best to stop at rest areas or other protected areas.
• If the side of the road is your only option, move as far away as possible, preferably beyond the end of a guardrail, and wait for the storm to pass. Keep your headlights on and turn on the hazard lights to alert other drivers of your location.

By following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce the risks and ensure your well-being during heavy rain. Stay informed about weather conditions and heed advice from local authorities to make your trip safe and sound.

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.