UPDATE: Keweenaw and Houghton counties under a Lakeshore Flood Advisory until Monday evening

The National Weather Service issued an updated Lakeshore Flood Advisory at 3:38 a.m. EST Monday in effect until 7pm EST for Keweenaw and Houghton counties.

The weather service says to prepare for “Minor Lakeshore Flooding.”

“Some water on low-lying roads and property along the Lakeshore,” the weather service says. “Residents on or near the coast must take appropriate steps to protect property from rising water levels.”

Decrypting advisories, watches and warnings: Understanding weather warnings

  • Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. In areas with flooding, it is important to move immediately to higher ground. A flash flood is a sudden and violent flood that can develop within minutes to hours, and it can even happen in areas that are not currently experiencing rainfall.

  • Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.

  • Flood Advisory: Please be aware of:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity that requires a warning. Nevertheless, it can still cause significant inconvenience and without the exercise of caution can potentially lead to situations threatening life and/or property.

  • Flood Watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. This does not mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Stay safe during a flood: Recommendations from the Weather Service

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following flood service guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Move to higher ground:

If you are in a flood zone or if you are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground as a first step.

Follow evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, comply immediately. Before you leave, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect tools and appliances:

If time permits, disconnect your tools and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during floods.

Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or wires. Prevention of electrical accidents is essential.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid water that can be charged with electricity.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through flood waters, even if they appear low. Just 6 inches of fast moving water can powerfully sweep you off your feet.

Search high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped in moving water, reach the highest possible point and call 911 to contact emergency services.

When heavy rains occur, there is a potential for flooding, especially in low-lying or flood-prone areas. It is important to never drive through water on the road, even if it appears to be shallow. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can carry most vehicles away. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots that uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.