Friday, September 28, 2012

Flash flood watch issued for west Texas through Saturday - @usNWSgov

An upper level trough will move across Southeast New Mexico and West Texas today and Saturday.  Numerous showers and thunderstorms will develop as strong southeast low level flow entrains moist Gulf of Mexico into the region and upper level moisture increases from Tropical Cyclone Miriam in the Pacific.  With abundant moisture in place, periods of heavy rainfall can be expected. This may lead to flash flooding in low-lying areas. A flash flood watch is in effect for portions of West Texas through Saturday.
Below is an image from the National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service (NESDIS) highlighting the reason for the heavy rain. 
 

http://www.ssd.noaa.gov/PS/PCPN/DATA/spe/201209280826.gif

Below is an image from the Hydrometeorological Prediction Center (HPC) showing possible rainfall totals over the next 3 days.

http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/qpf/d13_fill.gif

 http://www.nws.noaa.gov/om/water/tadd/images/TADDwarning4117x4117.jpg

Follow these safety rules:

  • Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards, or your favorite news source for vital weather related information.
  • If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc.
  • Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around Don't Drown
  • Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Turn Around Don't Drown™
  • Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.
  • Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.