Flash Flood Warning Issued for North Alabama Amid Severe Thunderstorms

Severe storms rolled across North Alabama on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, bringing heavy rainfall and causing flash flooding. The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning for portions of North Alabama due to these thunderstorms.

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Key Details of the Warning:

  • The Flash Flood Warning was issued on Tuesday, May 20, 2025, at 9:35 p.m., in effect until 1 a.m. Wednesday.
  • The warning affected DeKalb, Jackson, Madison, and Marshall counties.
  • It was caused by thunderstorms producing heavy rain.
  • Gauge reports indicated that Indian Creek in Madison county continued to be in action stage due to heavy rain from thunderstorms, leading to an ongoing or expected Flood Warning for low lying areas along the creek until 3:30 AM CDT.
  • Between 2 and 4 inches of rain had already fallen in some areas, with additional rainfall amounts of 2 to 3 inches possible for northeast Alabama.
  • Flash flooding was already occurring.
  • Anticipated impacts include flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, underpasses, as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas.

Impacted Locations:

Locations specifically mentioned as being impacted by the flash flood warning include Scottsboro, Fort Payne, Rainsville, Henagar, Sylvania, Owens Cross Roads, Hollywood, Powell, Gurley, Section, Woodville, Ider, Pisgah, Valley Head, Hammondville, Mentone, Dutton, Langston, Paint Rock, and Larkinsville.

For the Flood Warning specific to Madison county along Indian Creek, impacted locations include Huntsville, Madison, Redstone Arsenal, Triana, Marshall Space Flight Center and Harvest.

Understanding Weather Alerts:

It’s important to understand the different types of weather alerts:

  • Flash Flood Warning: Take action! This is issued when a flash flood is either imminent or already occurring. Move immediately to higher ground in flood-prone areas. Flash floods are sudden and violent, developing rapidly and potentially happening even in areas not currently experiencing rainfall.
  • Flood Warning: Take action! This is issued when flooding is imminent or occurring.
  • Flood Advisory: Be aware. Flooding is not expected to be severe enough for a warning, but it may cause significant inconvenience. Without caution, it could lead to situations threatening life and/or property.
  • Flood Watch: Be prepared. Conditions are favourable for flooding, indicating a possibility exists, though not a guarantee.

Flood Safety Guidelines:

During severe weather and flooding, following safety guidelines from the weather service can be crucial.

  • Seek higher ground: If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in low-lying terrain, relocate to higher ground.
  • Adhere to evacuation orders: If local authorities issue an evacuation order, comply promptly. Secure your home by locking it before leaving.
  • Disconnect utilities and appliances: If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances to reduce the risk of electrical hazards during flooding.
  • Steer clear of flooded areas: Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cords to prevent electrical accidents.
  • Evacuate immediately if electrical hazards are suspected: If you notice sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be charged with electricity.
  • Refrain from walking in floodwaters: Never attempt to walk through floodwaters; just 6 inches of swiftly moving water can knock you off your feet.
  • Seek higher ground if trapped: If trapped by moving water, make your way to the highest point available and contact emergency services by calling 911.
  • Never drive through flooded roads: Do not drive through water on the road, no matter how shallow it seems. As little as 12 inches of rapidly flowing water can carry away most vehicles. This is why you should “Turn around, don’t drown” when encountering flooded roads, as most flood deaths occur in vehicles. Be especially cautious at night when dangers are harder to recognise.

Navigating Heavy Rain: Driving Safety Measures

When heavy rain is falling, the risk of flooding and treacherous roads increases. The weather service provides essential safety measures for wet roads:

  • Beware of swollen waterways: Avoid parking or walking near culverts or drainage ditches where swift-moving water can be dangerous.
  • Maintain safe driving distances: Follow the two-second rule, adding an additional two seconds in heavy rain due to reduced traction and braking effectiveness.
  • Reduce speed and drive cautiously: Slow down on wet roads. Ease off the accelerator gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.
  • Choose your lane wisely: Stick to the middle lanes on multi-lane roads to minimize the risk of hydroplaning, as outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.
  • Enhance visibility: Turn on your headlights in heavy rain to improve visibility. 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 roads are slickest due to the mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened 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 swiftly and safely.
  • Mind your windshield wipers: If visibility is so limited that you cannot see the edges of the road or other vehicles at a safe distance, pull over and wait for the rain to ease. Ideally, stop at rest areas or other protected areas. If the roadside is the only option, pull off as far as possible, preferably past the end of a guard rail. Keep your headlights on and turn on emergency flashers to alert other drivers.

By staying informed about weather conditions and following these safety measures, you can significantly reduce risks and ensure your well-being during heavy rain and flooding.