Flood watch
Updated
A Flood Watch means flooding is possible because weather conditions are favorable, but it does not mean flooding will definitely happen. These watches are issued by local National Weather Service offices, usually hours to more than a day ahead of possible flooding, and cover a wide area where heavy rain is expected. A Flood Warning, in contrast, means flooding is imminent or already occurring, and you should take action immediately.
Right nowKp 1.33as of See every state
Aurora forecast and conditions:swpc.noaa.gov.
Watch vs warning vs advisory
| Alert | What it means | How certain | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flood Watch | Flooding is possible because conditions are right | Not certain, but worth preparing for | Know your risk and be ready |
| Flood Warning | Flooding is happening or will begin soon | High confidence, flooding is imminent or happening | Act now to protect yourself |
| Flash Flood Warning | A flash flood is happening or about to happen, with water rising in minutes to hours | Very high confidence, rapid onset | Move to higher ground immediately |
| Flood Advisory | Flooding is below warning level but still a hazard | Minor flooding possible or occurring | Use caution, especially in low-lying areas |
What a watch is telling you
A watch usually covers a broad area, sometimes several counties, ahead of a large rain system. The local National Weather Service office issues it hours to more than a day before the possible flooding, which gives you time to check your location and make a plan.
A watch can end in one of three ways: upgraded to a Flood Warning or Flash Flood Warning if flooding develops, canceled if forecasts improve, or allowed to expire when the threat passes.
What to do during a flood watch
- Find out if your property is in a flood-prone spot or next to a small creek.
- Plan a route to higher ground you can use if water starts rising.
- Move cars off low ground before rain arrives.
- Charge phones and any backup batteries you rely on.
- Drivers should keep off flooded roads if flooding develops.