A flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, at 5:31 p.m. on July 8. This warning applies to New Castle County and Chester and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania.
The weather service warns: “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads.”
See weather radar for New Castle County
What are National Weather Service meteorologists saying?
At 5:31 p.m., the weather service issued a statement:
“The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued a Flash Flood Warning for: Northwestern New Castle County in northern Delaware, Southern Chester County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Southwestern Delaware County in southeastern Pennsylvania, Until 9:45 p.m. EDT. At 5:31 p.m. EDT, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Up to 1 inch of rain has fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 2.5 to 3.5 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
HAZARD: Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms.
SOURCE: Radar.
IMPACT: Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses as well as other drainage and low lying areas. Some locations that may experience flash flooding include: West Chester, Westtown, Kennett Square, Oxford, West Grove, Landenberg, Hockessin, North Star, Ashland, Pike Creek, Kemblesville and Marshallton.”
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What is a flash flood?
A flash flood is a flood caused by heavy or excessive rainfall in a short period of time, generally less than six hours, according to the National Weather Service. Flash floods are usually characterized by raging torrents after heavy rains. A flash flood can be sudden and violent and take just minutes to develop. It is possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.
What’s the difference between a flash flood watch and a flash flood warning?
A flash flood warning is issued when a flood is imminent or occurring, the National Weather Service says. If you are in a flood-prone area, you should move immediately to high ground. The National Weather Service issues a flash flood watch when flash flooding is possible.
What to do during a flood warning
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Use a battery-operated radio or television to get the latest emergency information.
Do not walk through floodwater. Just 6 inches of floodwater can sweep you off your feet if it is moving swiftly.
Turn around, don’t drown; do not drive into a flooded street. Cars can be swept away by 2 feet of moving water or there may be unseen damage to the road. If you come to a flooded area turn around and go another way. Most flood-related deaths are caused by people driving through water.
Watch out for fire hazards.
Stay alert, turn weather notifications on.
Do not allow children to play in flowing water. Waters can hide rocks, trees and debris.
Reporters Jana Hayes and Victoria Reyna-Rodriguez contributed to this article.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Flash flood warning issued for New Castle County