Flash flood watch issued through Wednesday evening
The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood watch for the Charlotte area through Wednesday evening. Strong storms, damaging winds, hail and heavy rain are possible later today, which increases the possibility of flash floods and downed trees on area roadways. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Storm Water Services urges residents to take the following precautions:
- Turn around, don't drown: NEVER drive or wade through moving water or around flood barricades. Just 18 inches of water can carry away an SUV or bus; only 6 inches can sweep you off your feet.
- Stay away from creeks and streams; water levels rise quickly, even in areas where it isn't raining.
- Call 911 if you see water rising quickly -- particularly in a roadway -- or if you see someone trapped by flood waters in a vehicle or in a waterway
- Call 311 to report clogged storm drains or downed trees in waterways
For the latest emergency information
