DETROIT (WWJ) - Local authorities are urging Metro Detroiters to prepare now ahead of a line of dangerous storms that are expected to bring a number of hazardous risks on Wednesday, including dangerous flash flooding.
The Great Lakes Water Authority issued a warning to for residents in low lying areas and for those who have previously experienced flooding after the National Weather Service forecasted extreme heavy rainfall for all of Southeast Michigan.
"Severe thunderstorms, including some that pose a significant risk to lives and property, will slice through parts of the central United States into the middle of the week along the edge of a tremendous dome of heat," AccuWeather forecasters said on Wednesday morning.
"The storms, which erupted on Tuesday night in the central and northern Plains and will move into and across the Midwest and Great Lakes region Wednesday, can pack torrential downpours, damaging wind gusts, hail and even isolated tornadoes," meteorologists said
The NWS said the storms are expected to sweep into the area during the mid-afternoon to evening hours, between 2 p.m. and 9 p.m. specifically.
The expected total rainfall through Friday is 1.42 to 1.7 inches across the region. Isolated extremely flash flooding is possible in the most vulnerable locations which include urban areas, roads, small streams and washes.
"GLWA is asking residents in low-lying areas that are prone to flooding during heavy rainfall to remain vigilant and out of an abundance of caution, to remove items of value from their basements," local authorities advised. "It is also extremely helpful if residents do not run their washing machines and dishwashers during heavy rain events."
Residents are advised to stay up-to-date with the latest forecast as the storms approach and to know the dangers flooding if it occurs in your area.
"Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard," the NWS said. "The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters. People underestimate the force and power of water."
Experts said Michiganders should remember the phrase "turn around, don't drown" if they encounter flooded roadways. According to experts, a number of deaths occur when motorists attempt to cross submerged streets and get swept downstream.
"Many of these drownings are preventable. Never drive around the barriers blocking a flooded road," the NWS stated. "A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters."
State officials with MIREADY advises the following tips to prepare yourself ahead of flash flooding:
• Create an emergency preparedness kit with a 72-hour supply of water, including three gallons per person.
• Scan and store important documents on an online, cloud-based program.
• Put important documents and valuables in a water-proof container on the top floor of your home.
• Understand how to safely turn off electricity and gas lines in your home.
• Create an inventory of your household items and take photos of the interior and exterior of your home.
• Consider installing sewer backflow valves to prevent flood water from backing up into your home through drain pipes.
• Double-check sump pumps to ensure they are working properly. If possible, have a battery backup system.
• Keep materials like sandbags, plywood, plastic sheeting and lumber handy for emergency water-proofing.
• Find out how many feet your property is above and below possible flood levels. When predicted flood levels are broadcast, you can determine if you may be flooded.
• Rise or flood-proof heating, ventilating and air conditioning equipment by elevating equipment above areas prone to flooding. Another method is to leave equipment where it is and build a concrete or masonry block flood wall around it.
• Anchor fuel tanks. Unanchored fuel tanks can be easily moved by floodwaters.
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