The National Weather Service issued a weather warning at 3:42 p.m. Wednesday for heavy rain until 4:15 p.m. for Marshall and Jackson counties.
“At 3:36 p.m., Doppler radar tracked heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms from near Grant northeast to just southwest of Scottsboro, moving northeast at 30 mph,” the weather service said. “Heavy rainfall of up to 1 inch per hour may cause silting on area roadways. Allow extra time to get to your destination and extra mileage in these areas.”
Locations affected by the alert include Scottsboro, Grant, Section, Dutton, Langston, Union Grove, Larkinsville and Columbus City.
According to the weather service, “If you are outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building.”
Navigating Rainy Roads: Wet Weather Safety Tips
When it rains, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these weather service guidelines to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:
Watch out for fast water flow:
- During heavy rain, avoid playing near culverts or drainage ditches, where fast-moving water can pose a serious risk.
Keep safe driving distances:
- The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe distance in adverse conditions.
Slow down and drive carefully:
- On wet roads it is important to reduce speed. Release the accelerator pedal gradually and avoid sudden braking to prevent skidding.
Choose your file wisely:
- Stick to the center lanes to minimize the risk of aquaplaning. Outer lanes are more likely to accumulate water.
Visibility matters:
- Improve your visibility in heavy rain by turning on the headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.
Watch out for slippery roads:
- The first half hour of rain is when the roads are at their most slippery due to a mixture of rain, dirt and oil. Observe increased caution during this period.
Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:
- Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them quickly and safely.
Consider your windshield wipers:
Overloaded wiper blades can obstruct visibility. If the rain severely limits your vision, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek shelter in rest areas or sheltered areas. When stopping at the side of the road, position your vehicle as far from the road as possible, preferably beyond the guard rails. Keep your headlights on and activate your hazard lights to warn other drivers.
In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed of weather conditions and follow guidance from local authorities for a safe journey.
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.
