At 3:29 a.m. Friday, the National Weather Service issued a Coastal Flood Advisory effective for Friday between 7 a.m. and 11 a.m. for Essex and Union counties.

“Up to a foot of flooding above ground level is expected in vulnerable areas near the waterfront and coastline,” the weather service comments. “Minor localized coastal flooding is possible with the high tide Saturday morning.”

“Minor flooding in the most vulnerable locations near the waterfront and shoreline. Some low-lying roads and properties, including parking lots, parks, lawns, and homes and businesses with basements near the waterfront sea, will experience minor flooding,” adds the meteorological service. “If travel is necessary, allow extra time as some roads may be closed. Do not drive around barricades or into water of unknown depth. Take necessary steps to protect properties subject to flooding.”

Breakdown of weather alerts: advisories, watches and warnings

• Flash flood alert: act!

A flash flood warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or in progress. If you are in an area prone to flooding, move to higher ground immediately. A flash flood is a sudden, violent flood that can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours to develop. It is even possible to experience flash flooding in areas that do not immediately receive rain.

• Flood alert: act!

A flood warning is issued when flooding is about to occur or is already underway.

• Flood Warning: Caution:

A flood warning is issued when flooding is unlikely to reach a level of severity requiring warning. However, it can still cause considerable inconvenience and, without caution, potentially lead to situations endangering life and/or property.

• Flood Watch: Be Prepared:

A flood watch is issued when conditions are favorable for flooding. This does not mean there will be flooding, but it is possible.

Prepare for floods: expert advice from the weather service for your safety

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

Move to higher ground:

If you live in a flood-prone area or camp on low-lying ground, the first step toward safety is to move to higher ground.

Follow evacuation orders:

If local authorities issue an evacuation order, heed it promptly. Before leaving, secure your accommodation by locking it.

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If weather permits, unplug your utilities and appliances. This precaution minimizes electrical risks in the event of flooding.

Avoid flooded basements and submerged areas:

Avoid basements or rooms submerged in water with electrical outlets or cords. Preventing electrical accidents is crucial.

Rapid evacuation for your safety:

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

Stay away from flood waters:

Never attempt to cross floodwaters. Even just 6 inches of fast-moving water can forcefully knock you off your feet.

Seek higher ground if you get stuck:

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

During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying, flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through water on the road, even if it appears shallow. According to the weather service, most cars can be swept away by as little as 12 inches of rushing water. Prioritize your safety by staying informed and prepared.

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