Community Corner

Flash Flood Watch in Effect for Region

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties as well much of the DC metro area.

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a flash flood watch for Prince George's and Anne Arundel counties, and much of the DC metro area, through this evening.

Between one and two inches of rain is expected for most of the area, and in some isolated regions between three and six inches may fall. With heavy rainfall on Saturday, the chance for flooding has increased.

A small craft advisory is also in effect until 8 p.m. for the Chesapeake Bay below Poole's Island and for the lower tidal Potomac River.

Find out what's happening in Bowiewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

As a reminder, the Federal Emergency Management Administration offered the following information for flooding situations: 

  1. Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall.
  2. You may not have warning that a flash flood is approaching.
  3. Do not drive unless absolutely necessary.
  4. Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded-out road ahead, turn around. Find another route to your destination.
  5. If there is no other route, get to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.
  6. Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, don't try it. Water hides dips in the road. Worse yet, there may be no road at all under the water. Flooding can scour away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground beneath.
  7. If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.
  8. Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
  9. One foot of water will float many vehicles.
  10. Two feet of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles—including SUVs and pickup trucks.

Find out what's happening in Bowiewith free, real-time updates from Patch.


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