Flash flood watch: what it means and what to do
“Issued to indicate current or developing hydrologic conditions that are favorable for flash flooding in and close to the watch area, but the occurrence is neither certain or imminent.”
weather.gov →Flash Flood Watches in effect right now
No Flash Flood Watches in effect right now, 4 Flash Flood Warnings.
- Flash Flood Warning until Nov 2, 2026, 11:00 PM ETBrevard, FL; Indian River, FL
- Flash Flood Warning until Nov 2, 2026, 10:45 PM ETBroward, FL
- Flash Flood Warning until Nov 2, 2026, 10:00 PM ETBroward, FL; Palm Beach, FL
- Flash Flood Warning until Nov 2, 2026, 10:00 PM ETCoconino, AZ; Navajo, AZ
National Weather Service data, updated Nov 2, 2026, 9:50 PM ET. Not an official warning: follow your local NWS office. All US alerts →
What to do now
- A flood watch means conditions are favorable for flooding. A flood warning means flooding is imminent or occurring, so take action.
- Just 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult, and 12 inches of rushing water can carry away most cars.
- Never drive around a barricade or through flood water. The National Weather Service says it is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
- Most homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. NFIP flood insurance usually starts 30 days after you buy it, so buy well before a storm.
From our flood preparedness guide, which links every source.
Watch, warning or advisory?
Each in the National Weather Service's own words.
Flash Flood Watch
“Issued to indicate current or developing hydrologic conditions that are favorable for flash flooding in and close to the watch area, but the occurrence is neither certain or imminent.”
Flash Flood Warning
“A Flash Flood Warning is issued when a flash flood is imminent or occurring. If you are in a flood prone area move immediately to high ground. A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take from minutes to hours to develop. It is even possible to experience a flash flood in areas not immediately receiving rain.”
A watch means flash flooding is possible, so know your route to higher ground before a warning comes. A flash flood can develop in minutes, NWS says, even where it isn't raining. Never drive into flooded roads: turn around.
Get ready before the next one
Also: Driving through flood water · How to use sandbags for flooding
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