A flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service in Mount Holly, New Jersey, at 4:43 a.m. on Monday, Aug. 17. This warning applies to New Castle County in Delaware and Cumberland and Salem counties in New Jersey.
The NWS warns: "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. Please report observed flooding to local emergency services or law enforcement and request they pass this information to the National Weather Service when you can do so safely."
At 4:43 a.m., the NWS issued a statement including the following information:
"The National Weather Service in Mount Holly has issued a Flash Flood Warning for: Southwestern New Castle County in northern Delaware, Central Cumberland County in southern New Jersey, Salem County in southern New Jersey, Until 8:45 a.m. EDT. At 4:43 a.m. EDT, Doppler radar indicated heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 1 to 2 inches in 1 hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 2 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.
HAZARD: Flash flooding caused by heavy rain.
IMPACT: Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses as well as other drainage and low lying areas. Some locations that may experience flash flooding include: Vineland, Millville, Bridgeton, Middletown, Cumberland, Pennsville, Salem, Laurel Lake, Woodstown, Alloway, Quinton and Delaware City."
Flash floods can develop within six hours of heavy rain, dam or levee failure. They can uproot trees, destroy buildings and bridges and trigger mudslides. Flash floods are usually characterized by raging torrents after heavy rains.
Flash floods can even occur in areas that aren't receiving rain, the NWS warns.
A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding, according to the NWS. It doesn't guarantee flooding will occur, but it means flooding is possible.
A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or already happening, USA TODAY reported. If you're in a flood-prone area during a flash flood warning, move to higher ground immediately.
Remember: Turn around, don't drown.
If advised to evacuate, do so immediately.
Use a battery-powered radio or TV to get the latest emergency information.
Do not walk through floodwater - just 6 inches of moving water can knock you off your feet.
Turn around, don't drown: Never drive into a flooded street. Two feet of moving water can sweep away a car, and roads may be washed out.
Stay alert and keep weather notifications on.
Keep children away from floodwaters - they can hide rocks, trees, and debris.
This weather report was generated automatically using information from the National Weather Service and a story written and reviewed by an editor.
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This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Part of New Castle County under flash flood warning