A Coastal Flood Advisory was issued at 3:07 p.m. Thursday by the National Weather Service, effective for Friday between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. for Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes and Nantucket counties.

The weather service says: “Up to a foot of flooding above ground level is expected in low-lying areas near shorelines and tidal waterways (3.2 to 13.5 feet of average low water ). »

“Shallow flooding pockets less than a foot deep are affecting the lowest areas of the coast, including Morrissey Boulevard in Boston. Roads remain passable. Shallow flooding pockets less than a foot deep foot depth affects more vulnerable coastal roads along the North Shore from Salem and Gloucester to Newburyport. Rough surf will likely cause splashing on coastal roads at the time of high tide. of Nantucket Harbor, including Easy Street, could experience pockets of shallow flooding less than a foot deep,” the weather service says. “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.”

Deciphering advisories, watches and warnings: understanding weather alerts

• 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 guarantee that flooding will occur, but it does mean that the possibility exists.

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

Flooding can pose a significant threat, especially if you live in a flood-prone area or camp in a low-lying region. To ensure your safety, the weather service offers essential safety instructions against flooding:

Move to higher ground:

If you are in a flood-prone area or camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground first.

Follow evacuation orders:

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

Disconnect utilities and appliances:

If weather permits, unplug your utilities and appliances. This reduces the risk of electrical hazards 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.

Evacuate quickly for safety reasons:

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 if they appear shallow. Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can sweep you away with force.

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 heavy rains, the risk of flooding is increased, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. Always remember to never drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it may be. According to the weather service, as little as 12 inches of fast-flowing water can wash away most vehicles. 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.