What is the difference between a Flood Watch and a Flash Flood Watch?
• The major difference between a Flood Watch and a Flash Flood Watch, is the duration of the rainfall needed to produce flooding. • A Flood Watch implies a longer period of relatively lighter rains, adding up to a large amount of rain, while a Flash Flood Watchimplies a shorter period of heavier rain. Generally, if flooding is expected within 6 hours of the onset of rain, a Flash Flood Watch is most appropriate. • If flooding is expected beyond 6 hours after the onset of rain, a Flood Watch is most appropriate. The 6 hour threshold is very subjective and varies from forecaster to forecaster. REGARDLESS OF THE TYPE OF WATCH, FLOODING CAN OCCUR AT ANY TIME, SO BE ALERT. • Another difference between Flood Watches and Flash Flood Watches is the type of flooding it implies. • Flash flooding by definition suggests rapidly rising water, such as a surge of water heading rapidly downstream in a creek or small river. It could also be rapidly rising water on roadways, which can cause motorists to
