#Flood warning update#

In the U.S., these alerts are distributed in Specific Area Message Encoding through the Emergency Alert System and the NOAA Weather Radio network.

#Flood warning update#

They may also be issued as an update to previous warning and watch alerts. Those alerts are divided into several basic categories:įlood watches are issued when conditions suggest a possibility of flooding, or if flooding is anticipated within 12-48 hours.įlood warnings are more severe, and are issued if widespread flooding is expected across a large region, or if flooding is imminent or actively taking place.įlash flood watches and warnings follow the same protocol, but indicate potential for especially rapid flooding, usually from heavy rain or dam failure.įlood statements are issued when flooding is expected along major streams where people and property are not threatened. Generally speaking, the NWS issues flood alerts either on a county basis, or for particular rivers and streams. The NWS uses those data and data from other sources to issue river forecasts and flood alerts.

Specifically, the USGS acts as the principal source on surface and groundwater data, and operates more than 85 percent of stream gaging stations in the U.S.

Geological Survey and the National Weather Service - part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration - work together to maintain flood warning systems across the country. This guide offers instruction to individuals, communities, and organizations interested in establishing and operating flood warning systems. Of course, the most effective flood warning methods extend beyond the installation of gages and telemetry equipment, and employ qualified staff and carefully designed procedures to provide the earliest warning about whether a flood should be expected, when it will occur, and how severe it will be. WaterNow: When you email or text the WaterNow service with USGS gage or site number, WaterNow will reply with the most recent observation.While some areas are more prone to flooding than others, the establishment of flood warning systems near any major waterway or body of water provides critical information that can protect property and save lives.Use the WaterAlert map to create your custom notifications. WaterAlert: The WaterAlert service sends e-mail or text (SMS) messages to you when certain parameters (including streamflow and gage height/stage) exceed user-definable thresholds, as measured by a USGS real-time data-collection station.Regional and Local Flood Alerts: View current and historical alerts of flooding and response activities subscribe to RSS feeds.WaterWatch: Access current flood and high-flow conditions (image below), along with other streamflow information.The USGS offers multiple products that allow our stakeholders and the public to be notified of high-flow conditions and USGS flood response activities: USGS Flood Current Conditions and Notifications Use this website to discover real-time and historic flood data and scientific investigations, and learn how we collect data while addressing logistical and technical challenges.