EASTON — Chief Justin Alexander and the Easton Fire Department would like to share flood safety tips with residents amid this afternoon’s Flash Flood Watch.
A Flash Flood Watch is in effect from 2 p.m. today through Thursday afternoon across much of southern New England due to the potential for flash flooding caused by heavy rainfall.
Widespread rainfall of 2.5 to 5 inches is expected with possible isolated amounts of rainfall up to 6 or 7 inches. With the potential for increased amounts of rainfall, there may be rare/high impact flooding.
“Flash floods are a dangerous weather event, and with heavy rainfall expected to begin this afternoon and continue into tomorrow, we recommend that residents review the following safety tips to stay safe in the event of flash flooding,” Chief Alexander said.
The Easton Fire Department suggests that all residents follow tips provided by the Massachusetts Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) in the event of flooding:
- Don’t attempt to drive through large puddles or on flooded roads, which could threaten your safety. Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 2 feet of water can sweep your vehicle away.
- If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods are the number one cause of weather-related deaths in the U.S.
- If floodwaters rise around your car and the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water.
- Avoid camping or parking along streams, rivers and creeks during heavy rainfall. These areas can flood quickly and with little warning.
After a storm passes through the area, residents should remain cautious. Heavy rain and strong winds can cause a multitude of problems like power outages, fallen debris and floods that often block roads and emergency vehicles, prolonging damage.
- Call 9-1-1 to report emergencies, including downed power lines and gas leaks.
- Stay away from downed utility wires. Always assume a downed power line is live.
- If your power is out, follow MEMA’s power outage safety tips. Report power outages to your utility company. Do not call 9-1-1 to report an outage or to ask about power restoration.
Stay informed by receiving alerts, warnings, and public safety information before, during and after emergencies.
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