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Flash Flood Warning Queens

Flash Flood Warning Queens

2 min read 23-11-2024
Flash Flood Warning Queens

Queens residents urged to take immediate precautions as torrential rainfall triggers flash flood warning.

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Queens, New York, effective immediately. Torrential rainfall, exceeding rates of two inches per hour in some areas, is overwhelming storm drains and causing rapid rises in water levels across numerous roadways and low-lying areas.

What to Do Now:

  • Stay Indoors: Avoid all unnecessary travel. Do not attempt to drive through flooded areas; even shallow water can be deceptively dangerous. The force of the water can sweep vehicles away.
  • Monitor Weather Reports: Continue to monitor local news and weather reports for updates on the situation.
  • Secure Your Property: If possible, move valuables to higher ground. Consider sandbagging if you are in a particularly vulnerable location.
  • Be Aware of Rising Water: If you see rising water, move to higher ground immediately. Never attempt to walk or drive through flood waters.
  • Report Hazards: If you encounter any dangerous conditions, such as downed power lines or blocked roadways, contact emergency services immediately.

Areas Particularly Affected:

While the entire borough of Queens is under a flash flood warning, several areas are reporting particularly high water levels. These include, but are not limited to: [Insert specific locations if available from a reliable source. Avoid speculation].

Understanding Flash Floods:

Flash floods are a sudden and rapid rise in water levels, often occurring within six hours of heavy rainfall. They are extremely dangerous due to their unpredictable nature and the speed at which water levels can rise. The danger is heightened by the often limited time to react and evacuate.

Safety Tips for Flash Floods:

  • Never drive through flooded areas. The depth of the water is often difficult to judge, and even shallow water can sweep vehicles away.
  • Turn around, don’t drown. This is a crucial safety message. If you encounter a flooded road, do not attempt to cross it.
  • Stay away from power lines. Downed power lines are extremely dangerous and should be reported to emergency services immediately.
  • Monitor children and pets closely. Keep them away from flooded areas.

This is a rapidly developing situation. We urge all residents of Queens to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. Continue to monitor local news and weather reports for updates. Stay safe.