At 3:07 p.m. Thursday, a coastal flooding advisory was issued by the National Weather Service, effective Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket counties.

The weather service states, “Up to three feet above ground level flooding is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways (10 to 15 feet mean lower low tide).”

“Shallow flooding less than three feet deep is affecting the lowest areas along the coast, including Morrissey Boulevard in Boston. Roads remain passable. Shallow flooding less than three feet deep is affecting more vulnerable coastal roads along the North Shore from Salem and Gloucester to Newburyport “Rough surf will likely cause some flooding on coastal roads around the time of high tide. Low-lying areas and roadways near Nantucket Harbor, including Easy Street, may experience shallow flooding less than a foot deep.” , the weather service explains. “If travel is necessary, please allow additional time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or through water of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect flood-prone properties.”

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: understanding weather warnings

• Flash Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood threatens or occurs. If you are in a flood-prone area, move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden, violent flood that can take several minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas that do not receive direct rainfall.

• Flood Warning: Take Action!

A flood warning is issued when flooding occurs or is already underway.

• Flood Advisory: Please note:

A flood advisory is issued when flooding is not expected to reach a severity level that would require a warning. Nevertheless, it can still cause significant inconvenience and, without exercising caution, potentially lead to situations that threaten lives and/or property.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:

When conditions are favorable for flooding, a flood watch is issued. It does not guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does indicate that the possibility exists.

Be prepared for flooding: expert guidance from the weather service for your safety

Floods can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or camp in a low-lying area. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential flood safety guidelines:

Move to higher ground:

If you are in a flood-prone area, or camping in a low-lying spot, move to higher ground as a first step.

Adhere to evacuation orders:

When local authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it immediately. Before you leave, secure your home by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

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

Stay away from flooded basements and flooded areas:

Avoid basements or flooded rooms with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Evacuate immediately for safety:

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

Stay away from floods:

Never attempt to walk through flood water, even if it appears shallow. Just six inches of fast-moving water can forcefully sweep you off your feet.

Find high ground when you’re stuck:

If you are trapped by moving water, get to the highest available point and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rainfall, the risk of flooding is greater, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Always remember to never drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it seems. According to the weather service, just a foot of fast-moving water can sweep away most vehicles. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service from United Robots, which uses machine learning to gather the latest data from the National Weather Service.