Coastal flood advisory issued for Northern California from Sunday to Tuesday

North Bay Interior Valleys and San Francisco Bay Shoreline as well as San Francisco County are under a coastal flood advisory which was released by the National Weather Service on Saturday at 5:39 p.m. The advisory is valid from Sunday 7 a.m. until Tuesday Feb. 17, at 3 p.m.

“Up to 1.0 ft of inundation above ground level is possible in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways,” can be expected according to the NWS San Francisco CA. “At the San Francisco tidal gauge, high tide is expected to be: 0.9 ft above normal (6.8 ft MLLW) at 9:34 a.m. Sunday 1.0 ft above normal (6.9 ft MLLW) at 10:16 a.m. Monday 1.0 ft above normal (6.9 ft MLLW) at 10:58 a.m. Tuesday These predictions include up to 0.9 ft of storm surge that will enhance the astronomical tide and flooding threat. High tide timing varies up to 90 minutes earlier or later along the Pacific Coast and throughout the San Francisco Bay, respectively.”

“Flooding of lots, parks, and roads with only isolated road closures expected,” the NWS said. “If travel is required, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take the necessary actions to protect flood-prone property.”

How to use a sandbag and where to get sandbags in your area:

Follow these instructions on how to use sandbags and other flood preparation tips to protect your home, and click on the links below to get sandbags in your county:

Where to get sandbags in San Mateo County

Where to get sandbags in Alameda County

Where to get sandbags in Santa Clara County

Understanding the differences between advisories, watches, and warnings

• Flash flood warning: Take action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood-prone area, move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.

• Flood warning: Take action!

A flood warning is declared when flooding is on the verge of happening or is already underway.

• Flood advisory: Be aware:

A flood advisory is released when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level necessitating a warning. Nonetheless, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten life and/or property.

• Flood watch: Be prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. It doesn’t guarantee that flooding will occur, but it signifies that the possibility exists.

Keeping safe during floods: Expert advice from the NWS

In flood-prone regions or while camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the NWS flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Seek higher ground:

If you reside in a flood-prone region or are camping in low-lying terrain, the first step to safety is relocating to higher ground.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Prior to leaving, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If time allows, disconnect your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.

Steer clear of flooded basements and submerged areas:

Steer clear of basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Evacuate promptly for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.

Refrain from walking in floodwaters:

Never attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek high ground if trapped:

Should you become trapped by moving water, reach the highest point possible and dial 911 to contact emergency services.

During heavy rain, flooding is possible, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Never drive through water on the road, even if it does not appear to be deep. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, according to the NWS. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

For more weather alerts in the Bay Area, visit Weather Advisories