Collin County is under a flash flood warning until Monday evening, according to the NWS

An updated flash flood warning was issued by the National Weather Service at 3:11 a.m. Monday, in effect until 9:31 p.m.

Minor flooding is occurring and minor flooding is forecast for Sister Grove Creek near Blue Ridge from early this morning through late tonight.

“At 24.0 feet, minor offshore flooding is expected along the creek. Rural roads, along with farms and farmland near the creek, will begin to flood,” comments the NWS. “Do not drive through flooded areas. Caution is required when walking near river banks.”

This warning is in effect until 9:31 p.m

Tips from the NWS for staying safe during a flood

If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, move to higher ground. If you are told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock up your home before you leave. If time permits, disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid basements or rooms where water has submerged electrical outlets or cables. If you see sparks or hear noises, pops, crackles, or pops, evacuate immediately. Avoid any water that may be electrically charged and do not attempt to walk through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of fast-moving water can force you off your feet. If you become trapped in moving water, seek the highest point possible and contact emergency services by calling 911.

During heavy rainfall, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Remember to never drive through water on the road, even if it looks shallow. According to the NWS, up to 12 inches of fast-flowing water can wash away most cars.

What should you do on a rainy road?

• Turn on your headlights — Even when it's light outside, using your headlights can improve visibility and alert other drivers of your presence.

• On the road — Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground. Rainwater tends to accumulate on the edges of roads.

• Avoid puddles — Driving in puddles or areas with low rainwater can lead to vehicle hydroplaning or loss of control.

• Give plenty of space to large vehicles — Trucks or buses can create a spray of water that reduces visibility.

• Avoid flooded areas — When you encounter a flooded road, make a U-turn and go back. Strong currents from flash floods can pull motorists off the roads. Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.

What is hydroplaning?

Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.

This occurs when water collects in front of the tire faster than the weight of the vehicle can remove the water from the road. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to lift and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, causing the driver to lose control. The three main causes of hydroplaning are:

1. Vehicle Speed ​​— As a vehicle's speed increases, the traction grip of the tires and the ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at reduced speed during wet weather.

2. Water Depth – The deeper the water, the faster a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn't matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.

3. Tire Tread — Checking your tire tread before you hit the road is important, as low tread or lack of tread can lead to skidding.

In case of hydroplaning of your vehicle, here's what you need to know:

• Ease off the accelerator — Lift off the gas to slow the vehicle until the tires find traction.

• Skidding — Skidding can help the vehicle's tires realign to regain control.

• Make sure the tires reconnect to the road — During a skid, wait until the tires reconnect to the road and then gently steer the wheels to regain control.

• Brake gently as needed — Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump the brakes gently if on an older vehicle.

Source: National Weather Service