The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning in Macon. What to watch for

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Baldwin, Bibb, Jones, Twiggs and Wilkinson counties.

Three-to-five inches of rain has already fallen and an additional two inches is expected in Middle Georgia.

The NWS says to “turn around, don’t drown” when you come across flooded roads today and the rest of this week.

Here are some other things to know about flash floods:

  • Flash floods occur suddenly and usually within hours of excessive heavy rainfall.

  • Flash floods become raging torrents of water, ripping through neighborhoods, streets, valleys, etc. sweeping away whatever is in their path.

  • A flash flood warning is issued when flash flooding is happening or will happen soon. It means that roads will be flooded and some homes or businesses may flood.

  • Fast-moving water a foot deep can carry away a small car.

  • 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult.

  • 18-24 inches of fast-moving water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks.

The National Weather Service safety tips for flash flooding.
The National Weather Service safety tips for flash flooding.

The NWS also has several safety tips for flash flooding:

  • Remain alert and move to higher ground

  • Stay off the roads if possible and remember to “turn around, don’t drown” if you run into flooded roads

  • Stay away from downed power lines