Reviewed by: Mary Helene Hall
Heavy rain, potential flooding threatens Birmingham June 18
Reading time: 2 minutes
The National Weather Service Birmingham Office has issued a flood watch for the Birmingham Metro area beginning Thursday morning, June 18 at 7AM and ending Friday morning, June 19.
Over the next 48 hours, the Magic City is expected to receive between 2-3 inches of rain. The rest of the state south of Shelby County anticipates 4-6 inches.
Flash flooding safety tips in Birmingham
Be mindful that the second leading cause of weather related deaths over the past 30 years were not hurricanes or tornadoes, but flooding.
Many of those tragic events happen while people are driving their car through flooded areas.
What else should you do during a potential flood event? Besides avoiding flooded areas in your car, follow Ready.gov advice:
- If you are under a flood warning, find a safe place right away.
- Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown!
- Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of moving water can sweep your vehicle away.
- Stay off of bridges over fast-moving water.
- Determine how best to protect yourself based on the type of flooding.
- Evacuate if told to do so.
- Move to higher ground or a higher floor.
- Stay where you are.
One of the best sites to follow regarding the latest severe weather updates on social media is the National Weather Service’s Birmingham Office Facebook page. Make sure to visit the site throughout the day, and stay safe Birmingham!
