Feb. 2-6 is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Alabama
Flash flooding remains one of the most dangerous severe weather threats in Alabama, often developing faster than people expect and leaving little time to react.
Flash floods can form within hours of excessive rainfall and can quickly turn into raging torrents that sweep through streets and neighborhoods, destroying nearly everything in their path.
Heavy rain should always signal the possibility of hazardous flooding.
A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flash flooding across several counties. This is the time to review your plan and identify where you would go if water begins to rise.
A flash flood warning means dangerous flash flooding is happening or will happen soon. These warnings cover smaller areas and require immediate action — residents may only have seconds to reach higher ground.
In exceptionally rare and catastrophic events, the National Weather Service may issue a flash flood emergency. This classification is reserved for when water rises so quickly that it leads to ongoing rescues, severe damage to property and extreme danger to anyone in the affected area.
Flash floods can also occur when runoff overwhelms natural and man‑made drainage systems. Floodwaters often hide debris, sinkholes, washed‑out pavement and other hazards.
Moving water is extremely powerful — just a rapidly flowing stream of six inches of water can sweep you off your feet, and floodwaters of a foot or more can carry away small vehicles.
Most flood‑related deaths occur when people try to drive across flooded roads. Everyone should follow the life‑saving rule: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Never drive into water of unknown depth. If your vehicle stalls, abandon it and seek higher ground immediately.
During periods of heavy rain, stay alert, avoid flood‑prone areas and be prepared to move quickly if waters begin to rise. Staying aware and acting early can save your life during one of Alabama’s most underestimated severe weather threats.
This story continues the series helping the UA community stay informed and prepared for severe weather throughout the year.