What is an areal flood watch mean?

An areal flood watch means that conditions are favorable for flooding in a specific area, such as a river basin or drainage area. This watch is issued by the National Weather Service when heavy rain or other conditions are expected to cause flooding in the area within the next 24 to 48 hours.

During an areal flood watch, residents in the affected area should be prepared for potential flooding and take necessary precautions, such as moving valuable items to higher ground, ensuring that storm drains are clear, and staying informed of weather updates. It is important to stay alert and be ready to evacuate if necessary.

It is important to note that an areal flood watch is different from a flood warning, which means that flooding is already occurring or imminent in the area. A flood watch is a proactive measure to alert residents to the possibility of flooding so they can take precautions to protect themselves and their property.