Flash flood warning issued for Antrim County Michigan until Saturday afternoon

The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning for Antrim County on Saturday, September 20, at 12:20 p.m. EDT, effective until 3:30 p.m. EDT due to thunderstorms producing heavy rainfall across the region.

"At 12:20 p.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 2 and 5 inches of rain have fallen. Additional rainfall amounts of 0.5 to 1.5 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly," the weather service reported.

The warning specifically covers "Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas."


Also read: Southwest flash flooding risk returns Sunday as Tropical Storm Gabrielle strengthens in Atlantic

The flash flood warning affects Elk Rapids and Kewadin in Antrim County.

The weather service emphasized, "Turn around, don't drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles."

Understanding weather alert classifications

Flash flood warning: take action

A flash flood warning is issued when flash flooding is imminent or occurring. Residents in flood-prone areas should move immediately to higher ground. Flash floods develop suddenly and violently, taking minutes to hours to form, and can occur in areas not immediately receiving rain.

Flood warning: take action

A flood warning is declared when flooding is imminent or already underway in the affected area.

Flood advisory: be aware

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to reach warning levels but may cause significant inconvenience. Without proper caution, conditions could threaten life and property.

Flood watch: be prepared

A flood watch is issued when conditions favor flooding development, though flooding is not guaranteed to occur.

National Weather Service flood safety recommendations

Immediate safety actions

Move to higher ground: Residents in flood-prone areas or camping in low-lying locations should relocate to higher ground immediately.

Follow evacuation orders: Local authorities' evacuation orders should be followed promptly. Secure homes by locking doors before departing.

Disconnect utilities: When time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances to minimize electrical hazards during flooding.

Avoiding flood hazards

Avoid basements and submerged areas: Stay away from basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords to prevent electrical accidents.

Evacuate for electrical dangers: If sparks occur or buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds are heard, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may carry electrical current.

Stay away from floodwaters: Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Six inches of swiftly moving water can knock a person down.

Seek high ground if trapped: If trapped by moving water, reach the highest available point and contact emergency services at 911.

Also read: Tropical storm Gabrielle expected to strengthen into a hurricane this weekend as it moves across the Atlan

Driving safety during heavy rainfall

Road safety precautions

Avoid flooded roads: Never attempt to drive through standing water regardless of apparent depth. Twelve inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles.

Maintain safe following distance: Follow the two-second rule, adding two additional seconds during heavy rain to compensate for reduced traction and braking effectiveness.

Reduce speed: Slow driving is crucial on wet roads. Gradually ease off the accelerator and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.

Additional driving guidelines

Choose center lanes: Water tends to pool in outside lanes, making middle lanes safer options.

Use headlights: Activate headlights to enhance visibility during heavy rain. Watch carefully for vehicles in blind spots that rain-smeared windows may obscure.

Exercise caution early in rainfall: The first 30 minutes after rain begins present heightened risks as road grime and oil mix with water to create slippery conditions.

Maintain distance from large vehicles: Trucks and buses create tire spray that reduces visibility. Avoid tailgating and pass with caution.

Emergency roadside procedures

Monitor windshield wiper effectiveness: Heavy rain can overwhelm wiper blades. When visibility becomes so limited that road edges or other vehicles cannot be seen at safe distances, pull over until rain subsides.

Also read: Tropical Storm Gabrielle path avoids major US cities as system strengthens in Atlantic

Choose safe stopping locations: Rest areas and protected areas provide the best shelter options.

Roadside safety protocol: If roadside stopping is necessary, pull off as far as possible, preferably past guard rail ends. Keep headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers.

These safety measures significantly reduce risks during heavy rainfall events. Residents should stay informed about weather conditions and follow local authority guidance for safe travel and flood response.