Flash Flood Watch Issued for Dover and Much of NH

With heavy rain from Tropical Storm Elsa expected to begin Thursday night, the fire chief in Dover is reminding people of what to do in the case of flash flooding.

"Be aware of the local weather forecast and know what to do if flooding does occur,” Fire Chief Paul Haas said in a statement for the city.

Haas said if flooding occurs, get to higher ground immediately.

If motorists encounter a flooded roadway, they should turn around. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.

Haas also reminds residents to check drains and gutters to ensure they are clear of debris before heavy rains begin.

The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Dover and much of the Granite State.

The flash flood watch begins at 8 p.m. Thursday and currently ends Friday at 8 p.m.

As the storm pulls away from the coast a high surf advisory is in effect from 5 p.m. Friday to 11 a.m. Saturday for large breaking waves of 5-8 feet which will create dangerous swimming and surfing conditions. Inexperienced swimmers should stay out of the water.

Meteorologists at the National Weather Service say what is now Tropical Storm Elsa will continue to move towards the northeast before entering the Gulf of Maine as an extra-tropical cyclone on Friday.

Heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding remain the greatest threat. Generally, 1-3" of rain is expected, according to a social media post on Thursday morning.

New Hampshire Homeland Security and Emergency Management offered tips on handling floods

• NOAA Weather Radio for critical updates from the National Weather Service.
• Avoid walking or driving through flood waters.
• Just 6 inches of moving water can knock you down, and 1 foot of water can sweep your vehicle away. Use a stick to check the firmness of the ground in front of you.
• If you must evacuate, secure your home, including disconnecting electrical appliances.
• If floodwaters rise around your car but the water is not moving, abandon the car and move to higher ground. Do not leave the car and enter moving water. Just 6 inches of water can reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• Avoid floodwaters as they may be contaminated by oil, gasoline, or raw sewage. Water may also be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines.

Contact Managing News Editor Kimberley Haas at Kimberley.Haas@townsquaremedia.com.