At 7:52 p.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service issued a flood warning effective for Wednesday between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m. for Erie and Chautauqua counties.

The weather service says: “Flooding expected along the lakeshore.”

“The very rapid rise in water levels on the east side of Lake Erie will result in flooding along the Lake Erie shoreline. Flooding is likely along Route 5 in Hamburg, Buffalo Harbor and Canalside, the Port of Dunkirk and other flood-prone locations.” high wave action will also result in significant shoreline erosion,” the weather service explains. “A lakeshore flood warning means that flooding on the lakeshore is occurring, imminent or expected to occur. For your safety, stay away from breakwaters, piers, rock outcroppings and beaches! Waves are often larger than they appear and can easily wash you away. Expect significant beach erosion and debris, local road closures and extremely dangerous boating conditions.”

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 there is an imminent or imminent threat of flooding.

• 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 mean that flooding will occur, but it is possible.

Weathering the Storm: Flood Safety Guidelines from the Weather Service

In flood-prone areas or when camping in low-lying areas, understanding and following the weather service’s flood safety guidelines can be a lifesaver:

Find 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.

Follow 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 precaution minimizes electrical hazards during flooding.

Stay away from flooded basements and flooded areas:

Stay away from basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are flooded. This helps prevent electrical accidents.

Evacuate immediately for safety:

If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, popping or popping sounds, evacuate immediately. Do not enter water that may contain an electrical charge.

Do not walk in flood water:

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

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. Stay safe by being prepared and informed.

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