MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E. Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
mebrady@co.pg.md.us @PGFDPIO
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Flash Flood
Watch for Prince George’s County and surrounding jurisdictions from this
afternoon at 1:00 pm through late tonight.
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE STATEMENT
Flash Flood Watch
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE BALTIMORE
MD/WASHINGTON DC
349 AM EDT THU JUL 3 2014
...FLASH FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM
EDT THIS AFTERNOON
THROUGH LATE TONIGHT...
* FROM 1 PM EDT THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH
LATE TONIGHT
* TROPICAL MOISTURE WILL REMAIN OVER THE
AREA THROUGH TONIGHT. SHOWERS AND
THUNDERSTORMS ARE LIKELY...ESPECIALLY LATE THIS AFTERNOON THROUGH LATE TONIGHT.
RAINFALL RATES IN HEAVIER SHOWERS AND THUNDERSTORMS MAY EXCEED 2 INCHES PER
HOUR.
* IN TARGETED AREAS THAT RECEIVE
TORRENTIAL RAIN FOR LONGER THAN 30 MINUTES...FLASH FLOODING MAY BEGIN QUICKLY
AND IN A VERY LOCALIZED AREA. BE AWARE OF LOW AREAS THAT MAY FLOOD. NEVER CROSS
ROADS THAT ARE FLOODED. TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN.
Precautionary/preparedness actions: A Flash Flood Watch means
that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding. Flash flooding is a
very dangerous situation. Be prepared to take action should flash flood
warnings be issued.
Flash Flood Facts...
Flash floods occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive
rainfall or a dam failure. Flooding is a longer-term event and may last a week
or more.
Most flash flooding is caused by (1) slow-moving thunderstorms,
(2) thunder-storms repeatedly moving over the same area or (3) heavy rains from
hurricanes and tropical storms.
Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy
buildings and bridges.
Densely populated areas have a high risk for flash floods. The
construction of buildings, highways, driveways, and parking lots increases
runoff by reducing the amount of rain absorbed by the ground.
Water can erode the roadbed creating unsafe driving conditions.
Many flash floods occur at night when flooded roads are hard to
see.
2 feet of water will float your car, truck or SUV!!! 6 inches of
fast-moving floodwater can knock you off your feet.
Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are auto related. If
your car stalls, leave it and seek higher ground, if you can do so safely.
Underpasses can fill rapidly with water, while the adjacent
roadway remains clear. Driving into a flooded underpass can quickly put you in
5-6 feet of water.
The Prince George's County Fire/Emergency Medical Services
(EMS) Department wants you to stay safe during this potentially dangerous
weather conditions. Help us by helping yourself and heed warnings and
safety tips.
Flash Flood Safety Tips...
Never try to walk, swim, or drive through swift-moving
floodwater. Remember, 2 feet of water will float your vehicle and 6 inches of
fast moving floodwater can knock you off your feet.
If you come upon floodwaters, STOP, TURN AROUND AND GO ANOTHER
WAY!!
Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road.
If your car stalls in high water, DON'T PANIC, leave your car and seek higher ground, if you can
do so safely and call 911.
Stay informed about the storm and possible flooding by listening
to your NOAA weather radio, commercial radio or television.
STAY INFORMED - STAY READY - STAY SAFE!!!
 |
| Flash Flooding occurred here. A car stranded in high water on Paint Branch Parkway in College Park in June 2014. Don't Panic!!! Seek higher ground or await public safety assistance on the roof of your car. |
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