Update: Flood Warning and Coastal Flood Warning for Woodbridge

Update: March 10
The National Weather Service has issued a coastal flood warning for Prince William County until 9 p.m. There will be moderate to heavy rain this evening.

A flood warning means that flooding is imminent or has been reported. Streams will rise slowly, and flash flooding is not expected. A coastal flood warning means that flooding is occurring or imminent.

As of 3 p.m. there were no road closures in Woodbridge as a result of flooding. 

Original Post:

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Prince William County starting Wednesday night through late Thursday night.

NWS said that moderate to heavy rain will move into the region Wednesday and that up to three inches of rain is possible.

A flood watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. Residents should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings.

Those who live in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action.

The Department of Fire and Rescue warns residents to take the following precautions:

BEFORE the FLOOD

• Keep your automobile fueled
•  Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio All Hazards
•  Prepare a disaster supply kit
  • NOAA Weather Radio (battery-powered portable)
  • Flashlight 
  • Can opener (manual) 
  • First-aid kit 
  • Canned food, non-perishable foods, bottled-water 
  • Rubber boots, rubber gloves 
  • Additional clothing
• Develop a family evacuation plan o Discuss the plan and make sure everyone knows what to do in case of flooding

DURING the FLOOD

• Get out of areas subject to flooding and seek higher ground 
• Avoid underpasses, underground parking garages, and basements during or after heavy rains
• Extra batteries
• Change the batteries during spring and fall when you change your clocks (spring forward, fall back)

Turn Around, Don't Drown (TADD)

•  DO NOT attempt to cross flowing streams 
• NEVER drive through flooded roadways -- six inches of water can stall a vehicle!
• If your vehicle stalls, get out and move to higher ground
•  Two feet of moving water can sweep a vehicle, including SUVs, downstream!
•  If walking in water that is above your ankles, stop and turn around – six inches of rushing water can sweep you off your feet!
•  At night, be cautious when driving or walking, visibility is poor and it becomes harder to recognize flood dangers
• Children should NEVER play around high water, storm drains, streams, ditches, etc. 
• When conditions are dangerous, DO NOT camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers, etc.

AFTER the FLOOD

•  Fresh food that has come into contact with flood waters -- throw it out!
• Boil tap water (before drinking or using) or well water (before drinking or using)
•  Pump out well 
• Test water for purity 
• When in doubt call your local public health authority
• Have electrical equipment checked and dried prior to returning to service
• Use flashlights when inspecting buildings (residential and/or business) o DO NOT use lanterns, torches or matches when examining a building; flammables may be present
•  Report broken utility lines to the appropriate authorities