At 3:29 a.m. Friday, the National Weather Service issued a coastal flood warning effective for Essex and Union counties between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. Friday.

“Flooding of up to one foot above ground level is expected in vulnerable areas near shore and shore,” the weather service comments. “Local minor coastal flooding is possible at high tide on Saturday morning.”

“Minor flooding in the more vulnerable locations near the water and shoreline. Some roads and low-lying properties, including parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes and businesses with basements near the water, will experience minor flooding,” the weather service adds. “If travel is necessary, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take necessary measures to protect flood-prone property.”

Weather Alerts Breakdown: Advisories, Watches and Warnings

• Flash flood warning: take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you find yourself in a flood-prone area, move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden, intense flood that can take minutes to hours to develop. Flash flooding may even occur in areas where it does not rain immediately.

• Flood warning: take action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is imminent or is already underway.

• Flood Warning: Be Aware:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a level of severity requiring a warning. However, it can cause considerable inconvenience and, if not exercised caution, could potentially lead to life-threatening and/or property-threatening situations.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood warning is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. That doesn't mean there will be flooding, but it is possible.

Be prepared for floods: expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

In flood-prone regions or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the Weather Service's flood prevention guidelines can be life-saving:

Go to a higher level:

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is to move to higher ground.

Follow the evacuation instructions:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Before leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and devices:

If time permits, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or flooded rooms with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Quick evacuation for your safety:

If you notice sparks or hear humming, crackling, snapping or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid water that may be electrically charged.

Stay away from flooding:

Never attempt to walk through flood water. Even 6 inches of fast-moving water can force you off your feet.

Find high ground if trapped:

If you become trapped by running water, get to the highest point available and call emergency services at 911.

During periods of heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is important to avoid driving through water on the road, even if it appears flat. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away in water depths of just 30 cm. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

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