A flood warning is in effect for Mobile and Baldwin counties until Thursday afternoon

The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for coastal areas of Mobile and Baldwin at 7:34 a.m. Thursday, effective until 1 p.m.

“Flooding of properties, parks and roads, only isolated road closures are expected. Breaking waves can sweep people from piers and docks into dangerous water. Life-threatening swimming conditions and significant beach erosion are expected. Surf riptides can push even the best swimmers away from shore and into deeper water,” the weather service explains. “If you must travel, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barriers or through waters of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect property at risk of flooding. Because of life-threatening surf conditions, everyone should stay out of the water. Stay away from piers, piers and other waterfront infrastructure. Swim near a lifeguard. If you get caught in a surf riptide, relax and let yourself drift. Do not swim against the current. If possible, swim in a direction that follows the shoreline. If you cannot escape, turn to shore and call or wave for help.”

Understanding the differences between advisories, observations and warnings

• Flash flood warning: take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or is already occurring. In areas at risk of flooding, it is important to get to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and severe flood that can develop within minutes to hours and can occur even in areas where there is currently no rainfall.

• Flood warning: take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or already underway.

• Flood warning: Please note:

A Flood Warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity that would warrant a warning. However, such a warning may cause significant inconvenience and, if ignored, may result in situations threatening life and/or property.

• Flood warning: Be prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favourable for flooding. This does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Safe behaviour during floods: Recommendations from the weather service

Flooding can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the Weather Service offers important flood safety guidelines:

Find higher ground:

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in low-lying areas, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.

Follow evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, obey it immediately. Secure your home by locking it before leaving.

Disconnect utilities and equipment:

If time permits, unplug your utilities and appliances. This precaution will minimize electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or rooms in contact with water where there are electrical outlets or cables. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Fast evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or banging noises, evacuate immediately. Do not enter water that may be live.

Stay away from floods:

Never attempt to walk through flood water, even if it appears shallow. Even 6 inches of fast-flowing water can sweep you off your feet with full force.

If you are trapped, seek higher ground:

If you become trapped in running water, go to the highest possible point and call 911.

Flooding can occur during heavy rain, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear deep. According to the weather service, as little as 30 cm of water is enough to sweep away most cars. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

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