A watch issued by the National Weather Service.
A Flash Flood Watch indicates conditions are favorable for dangerous rapid flooding. Flash floods can strike with alarming speed, often developing within minutes and sometimes occurring without any visible rainfall in the immediate area. Remember that just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet, while 12 inches can sweep away most vehicles.
A watch signals potential flooding that may or may not occur, unlike a Flash Flood Warning which indicates imminent or active flooding. Watches typically cover larger areas and remain active for several hours.
Expect heavy rainfall (over one inch in a short timeframe) upstream of the flooding event. It is particularly dangerous where ground is already saturated or in poor drainage areas like urban zones. Areas near waterways, downstream from dams, or near burn scars face heightened risk.
If you're in a flood-prone area, monitor local news and weather apps closely. Avoid parking near streams or low-lying areas. Be prepared to move quickly to higher ground if necessary, and charge your electronic devices in case of power outages.