This week is Flood Safety Awareness Week. Flooding occurs every year across the U.S. and each year is becoming more deadly.

Flooding is one of the top weather-related causes of death in the U.S. As we get into the warmer season, severe thunderstorms and tropical systems can produce dangerous flash flooding. In recent years, flash flooding has caused catastrophic damage to communities with thousands of lives lost.

The remnants of Ida was one of the deadliest storms on record for the tri-state, with 50 people reported dead from flash flooding. As climate change continues to impact our environment and even our daily lives, one thing to know for sure is that warmer ocean temperatures can enhance the longevity and intensity of tropical systems, making situations like Ida more common. 

So how can we prepare? This week your News 12 Storm Watch Team meteorologists are letting you know the different flood alerts and how to prepare. 

A flash flood is a sudden dangerous flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.  

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

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to be bad enough to issue a warning. However, it may cause significant inconvenience, and if caution is not exercised, it could lead to life-threatening situations.

A flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. In a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground because floodwaters can quickly rise from minutes to hours threatening human life/ property. Flash flood warnings are changing to an impact-based format to improve public response. 

In a flood emergency, a flash flood warning with catastrophic damage is issued for your area. You need to take immediate personal lifesaving action! Public safety officials may not be able to help you. If in a safe and dry location, stay put. If not, get to higher ground immediately!

The National Weather Service of New York is implementing extra precaution over flash flood events to enhance forecasting, warning, messaging and alerts to the public.

Your News 12 Storm Watch Team meteorologists will keep you prepared and safe for any inclement weather heading our way.