Weather in New York: A lakeshore flood warning is in effect for Erie and Chautauqua counties until Monday afternoon

At 3:06 a.m. Sunday, the National Weather Service issued a lakeshore flood warning that was in effect for Erie and Chautauqua counties from 10 p.m. until 1 p.m. Monday.

The weather service added: “Significant lakeshore flooding is expected.”

“The rapid rise in water levels at the eastern end of Lake Erie will result in flooding along the Lake Erie shoreline. Flooding is likely along Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor and Canalside, Dunkirk Harbor and other flood-prone locations. Very high.” “The wave action will also lead to significant coastal erosion,” describes the weather service. “A Lakeshore Flood Warning means that lakeshore flooding is present, imminent or expected. For your safety, stay away from breakwaters, piers, ledges and beaches! Waves are often larger than they appear and can easily wash you away. Expect significant beach erosion and debris, local road closures and extremely dangerous boating conditions.”

Deciphering Notices, Watches and Warnings: Understanding Weather Alerts

• Flash flood warning: take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or already occurring. In flood-prone areas, it is important to move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden and intense flood that can develop within minutes to hours and can occur even in areas where there is currently no rain.

• Flood warning: take action!

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

• Flood Warning: Be Aware:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity requiring a warning. However, it can cause considerable inconvenience and, if not exercised caution, could potentially lead to life-threatening and/or property-threatening situations.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It is not a guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

Weathering the Storm: Flood Safety Guidelines from the Weather Service

Flooding can pose a significant hazard, 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 protection guidelines:

Find higher ground:

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

Follow the evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and devices:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or flooded rooms with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

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

Do not walk in flood waters:

Never attempt to walk through flood water. Even 6 inches of fast-moving water can force you off your feet.

In the event of an accident, seek higher ground:

If you become trapped by running water, get to the highest point available and call emergency services at 911.

Heavy rain can lead to flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. According to the weather service, it only takes 30 centimeters of water to wash 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.