Flood Watch vs Warning vs Advisory

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is expected but is not expected to be bad enough for a warning. It can still cause significant inconvenience and, without caution, situations that threaten life or property. Use caution, avoid flooded roads, and stay informed in case conditions worsen.

A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flooding. It does not mean flooding will occur, but it is possible. Review your route to higher ground, charge essential devices, gather supplies, and stay informed. If your home is likely to flood, follow official evacuation instructions rather than waiting for water to arrive.

A flood warning means flooding is imminent or already occurring in the warned area. Act now: move to higher ground if you are in a flood-prone area and follow evacuation instructions immediately. Never drive through flooded roads. Turn around, don't drown; the road beneath the water may be damaged or missing.

A flash flood is a sudden, violent flood that can develop in minutes to hours, generally within six hours of its cause. It can occur even where rain is not falling at that moment. A flash flood warning means a flash flood is imminent or occurring; move immediately to high ground if you are in a flood-prone area.

Urban pavement, steep terrain, and wildfire burn scars can accelerate runoff. Do not wait to see rising water before deciding where you will go.

Enter your location at the National Weather Service, monitor NOAA Weather Radio, and follow local emergency management. For river conditions, check USGS real-time stream gauges. Our Atlantic tracker can show the tropical system producing rainfall, but it is not a local flood-alert service.

What is the difference between a flood advisory, watch and warning?

A flood advisory means flooding is expected but is not expected to meet warning criteria. A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flooding. A flood warning means flooding is imminent or occurring. Be aware for an advisory, prepare for a watch, and take action for a warning.

Should I drive through water during a flood advisory?

No. An advisory can still involve dangerous conditions. Never drive through flooded roads; turn around and do not drown.

What should I do during a flash flood warning?

A flash flood warning means a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground and follow local emergency instructions.

Where can I see active flood alerts for my area?

Enter your location at weather.gov or monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local emergency management. HurriTrack's Atlantic tracker can show a tropical system behind the rainfall, but it is not a local flood-warning service.