Coastal Flood Warning: Flood watch issued for Steuben and Tompkins counties until Saturday evening

On Saturday at 10: 55 a. m. the National Weather Service issued an updated flood watch in effect until 8 p. m. for Steuben and Tompkins counties. Use of a coastal flood warning is unclear in the provided context.

Flood watch issued Saturday morning

The National Weather Service updated the advisory on Saturday at 10: 55 a. m., placing Steuben and Tompkins counties under a flood watch that remains in effect until 8 p. m. The watch means conditions are favorable for flooding; it does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Steuben and Tompkins counties

The weather service describes, "Flooding caused by ice jams continues to be possible. " The agency adds: "The combination of recent rain and snowmelt has resulted in increased flow along rivers and streams in Tompkins and Steuben counties. Ice on the rivers may break up, and jam downstream to cause flooding in some low-lying areas along the river. Some park and trail areas have already experienced elevated water levels, " describes the weather service. "You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop. "

Ice jams could cause flooding

The watch highlights the possibility that ice on rivers may break up and jam downstream, producing flooding in low-lying river areas. The context notes that some park and trail areas have already experienced elevated water levels and tells residents to monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible Flood Warnings. The phrase coastal flood warning appears in the coverage requirement but its applicability to these inland counties is unclear in the provided context.

Warnings and advisories explained

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it's crucial to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent inundation that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway. A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to situations that may threaten life and/or property. A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Weather service safety guidance

The weather service offers specific steps to stay safe: if you're in a flood-prone area, or if you're camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step. If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it. If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately and avoid any water that may be charged with electricity. Never attempt to walk through floodwaters; even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet. If you become trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, the weather service. When heavy rain pours, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads rises. In heavy rain, refrain from parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a grave danger.

Residents of Steuben and Tompkins counties should monitor forecasts, be prepared to take action if Flood Warnings are issued, and follow the weather service safety guidance until the flood watch ends at 8 p. m.