Understanding flood warnings and staying safe
A flood warning is the most urgent of the flood alerts issued by the National Weather Service. A flood watch means conditions could lead to flooding; a flood warning means flooding is happening or is about to happen in the named area. A warning that runs until a set time, such as a weekday morning, can be extended or cancelled as rivers and rainfall change, so check the latest local forecast instead of relying on an older notice. This alert concerned Baldwin County, and the details may now be out of date.
Practical steps during a warning
- Never drive or walk through flooded roads. A few inches of moving water can knock a person over, and slightly more can float a car. Turn around and find another route.
- Keep a phone charged and turn on emergency alerts so you get updates from local authorities.
- Move important documents, medicines and valuables to a higher spot, and know how you would leave if officials order an evacuation.
- Stay away from creeks, drainage channels and low underpasses, especially after dark.
Health concerns after floodwater
Floodwater often carries sewage, chemicals and debris. Skin contact can cause irritation or infection, and cuts exposed to the water need careful cleaning. If you clean up a flooded home, wear gloves and boots, throw out food that touched the water, and watch for mould, which can trouble people with asthma or allergies. Running a generator indoors or in a garage can cause carbon monoxide poisoning, so keep it outside and well away from windows. If you get a wound that looks infected, have a fever, or feel ill after contact with floodwater, talk to your own doctor.
Travelling to events in bad weather
If you plan to travel to a concert or other live event while severe weather is forecast, check the venue's official channels for postponements before you set off, allow extra time, and have a backup route in mind. For more plain-language health advice, browse our guides or the latest news.