MEDIA CONTACT: Mark E.
Brady, Chief Spokesperson, 240-508-7930
MEBrady@co.pg.md.us
@PGFDPIO
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for
Prince George's County and surrounding areas. Please take the time to
read their most recent update and safety advice.
From the National
Weather Service:
AN UPPER LEVEL LOW PRESSURE OVER THE WESTERN
GREAT LAKES WILL
DROP
SOUTHWARD INTO THE OHIO VALLEY WEDNESDAY INTO THURSDAY. AS
THE
UPPER LOW DROPS SOUTHWARD...LOW LEVEL FLOW IS FORECAST TO
RAPIDLY INCREASE OVER THE AREA WEDNESDAY NIGHT RESULTING IN
SIGNIFICANT MOISTURE TRANSPORT INTO THE AREA. PERIODS OF HEAVY
RAINFALL ARE ANTICIPATED LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY
NIGHT ACROSS THE CENTRAL MID-ATLANTIC. THE PERIOD OF GREATEST
RAIN
RATES IS EXPECTED LATE WEDNESDAY NIGHT THROUGH THURSDAY
AFTERNOON. WIDESPREAD RAINFALL AMOUNTS OF 3 TO 5 INCHES ARE
EXPECTED WITH LOCALIZED HIGHER TOTALS IN AREAS OF REPEATED
ACTIVITY.
Safety Advice
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, television or Internet.
Sign up for "ALERT - Prince George" and receive important information on your phone and other devices. Please click here to sign up.
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