SMYRNA – Delaware officials warn residents of the potential for flooding and strong wind this afternoon and tonight due to a severe thunderstorm that may produce rainfall rates exceeding 2 inches per hour.
The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Risk and Severe Weather Risk for Thursday afternoon through Thursday night. Showers, thunderstorms, and excessive rainfall can cause flash flooding in urbanized areas and areas with poor drainage, as well as small streams and creeks. Road closures could be caused by flooding. Locally damaging winds and isolated severe thunderstorms could cause tree damage, power outages, and even localized tornadoes. Flood Watches are in place for the area until 6 AM on Friday.
Delaware Emergency Management Agency will monitor weather conditions, and work with county officials to address any new needs. DelDOT will post road closures and travel advisories to its website and DelDOT app.
Delaware is a coastal state that has the lowest elevation on average in the U.S. Flooding is the main weather hazard. To see a map showing the flood-prone area in Delaware, visit de.gov/floodrisk. Residents of these areas are advised to monitor the weather conditions and be prepared to move higher ground, if needed. Motorists are reminded to <a href="https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood-turn-around-dont-drown#:~:text=The%20Centers%20for%20Disease%20Control,into%20or%20near%20flood%20waters. Turn Around, Don't drown if you encounter flooded roads.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than half of all drownings related to floods occur when vehicles are driven into flood waters. Walking into or near floodwaters is the second leading cause of flood-related death.
Key Messages
* Be informed of current weather conditions, forecasts for storms, travel advisories and warnings.
* Register for the Delaware Emergency Notification System at de.gov/dens in order to receive alerts about hazardous conditions or emergency closures. Download the FEMA app to set up local alerts.
Avoid driving in areas that are flooded if possible. Use the DelDOT app to check road conditions.
Flood Severity Terms
* Flood Watch: It is possible that flooding will occur. Tune in to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio.
Flash floods are possible. Listen to NOAA Weather Radio or commercial radio for information.
* Flood Alert: There is or will be flooding soon. If you are advised to evacuate immediately, please do so.
* Flash flood Warning: A flash flooding is taking place; immediately seek higher ground by foot.
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