How to understand flood alerts and warnings

Catch up quick: Even as waters have receded in Kerr County, flash flood alerts continue to occur across the region.

Here are a few terms worth knowing.

• Flash flood: A sudden rush of water after heavy rain or a dam break. It can quickly swamp dry areas or fill creeks and rivers.
• Flood watch: Conditions are favorable for flooding. Be prepared.
• Flood warning: Flooding is happening or about to. Take action.
• Flash flood warning: Sudden, dangerous flooding is expected. Move to higher ground if you're in a flood-prone area.
• Major flood stage: Serious flooding may impact homes, roads and daily life. Evacuations may be needed.
• 100-year flood: A major flood with a 1% chance of happening in any year, not once every 100 years.