Flash Flood Alert: North Texas Braces for Heavy Rain and Rising Waters This Tuesday Afternoon, Warns NWS

North Texas is under a serious flash flood warning as heavy rainfall continues to drench the region. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), the warning covers Collin, Dallas, and Denton counties and remains in effect until 2 p.m. this Tuesday. With over 2 inches of rain already recorded, cities like Dallas, Plano, Garland, Irving, and McKinney are bracing for potential flooding.

The NWS reports that heavy precipitation has already begun to lead to possible urban flooding in streets, channels, highways, creeks, and small streams. Residents are advised not to go near low land areas and poor drainage slots. Importantly, the NWS reminds everyone, “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”

Tips to Stay Safe During Flooding

To minimize risks, the NWS recommends the following:

• Move to Higher Ground: If you are in a flood-prone area, relocate immediately to avoid rising waters.

• Evacuate if Ordered: Follow evacuation instructions promptly and lock your home before leaving.

• Avoid Contact with Water: Floodwaters may carry electrical charges or hazardous debris. Avoid walking or driving through them.

• Call for Help if Trapped: If caught in moving water, get to higher ground and make emergency calls by dialing 911.

Driving Tips for Rainy Conditions

Driving during heavy rain increases the risk of accidents. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Use Headlights: Improve visibility for yourself and others by turning on your headlights.

• Stay on High Ground: Drive in middle lanes as water accumulates more on the edges of roads.

• Avoid Puddles and Flooded Roads: Slippage (hydroplaning) can also happen in a relatively shallow water, leaving no control over the vehicle.

• Maintain Distance from Large Vehicles: Trucks and buses may spray water, reducing visibility.

What to Do if Your Vehicle Hydroplanes

• Hydroplaning happens when tires lose traction on wet roads.

• Ease off the accelerator to slow down.

• Turn into the skid to realign your tires.

• Wait for the tires to reconnect with the road before gently steering straight.

• Brake lightly if needed, especially in older vehicles without anti-lock brakes.

Stay vigilant and prioritize safety during this weather event. For updates, please be on the lookout for local alerts and heed the NWS.

FAQs:

How to find out if my local store has modified hours due to the storm?
Check with local stores or use their websites to confirm if their hours have changed because of the storm. Many stores may have adjusted hours or closures.

How to learn if my nearby store is changing its hours because of the weather?
Verify if hours of operation have shifted at local stores or on their websites due to the storm. Many stores may have adjusted hours or closures.