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This Pennsylvania Severe Weather Awareness Week web briefing is brought to you by the
National Weather Service in State College. The week of March 3rd through March 7th has
been designated as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Pennsylvania. Each day, a different
topic will be addressed to highlight significant severe weather hazards and safety precautions
to take when severe weather strikes. Today’s topic is flash flooding. We will
explain the definition of a flash flood, the difference between a flash flood watch and
a flash flood warning, and give safety tips on what to do when a flash flood watch or
warning is issued for your location.
A flash flood is a sudden and violent life-threatening flood, typically resulting from intense rainfall
over a short period of time. The majority of flash floods in Pennsylvania are caused
by slow-moving thunderstorms or tropical rainfall. Ice jams and snowmelt can also lead to flash
flooding. A flash flood watch gives you advance notice
that conditions are favorable for flash flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but
it is possible. When a flash flood watch is issued for your location, be sure to stay
alert for changing weather conditions. If you live in a flood prone area, be prepared
to move to higher ground. A flash flood warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent
or occurring. Now is the time to take action! Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding
than from any other severe weather related hazard. Over half of all flood-related deaths
occur when a vehicle is driven into flood waters. Always remember, if you encounter
a flooded roadway, Turn Around, Don’t Drown! For additional information on Severe Weather
Awareness Week in Pennsylvania, please visit our webpage. The National Weather Service
in State College is on social media - so like us Facebook, follow us on Twitter and subscribe
to our YouTube channel. Thank you for watching this video and have a safe severe weather
season!