Cortland Faces Tiny Floods: What You Need to Know

In Cortland County, a flood warning was issued late last night for Wednesday and Thursday. The alert says the Tioughnioga River will reach 8 feet, which is just enough to cause minor flooding. Because of this, a few lanes on Kellogg Road south of town may be closed and traffic could get stuck. The warning urges people to turn around if they see flooded roads, because most accidents happen when cars get swept away. A flood warning is a signal that water will rise soon or already does. It’s different from an advisory, which means the water isn’t high enough to be dangerous but could still bother you. A watch says conditions are right for flooding, while a flash flood warning means a sudden burst of water is already happening. In all cases, people should act quickly and move to higher ground if they can. The National Weather Service also shares safety tips. If you live in a low area or are camping near water, move up as soon as possible. When officials ask you to leave your house, follow their orders right away and lock up before you go. If time lets, switch off appliances and unplug electronics to avoid electric shocks.When water touches basements or rooms with outlets, stay away. Even a small amount of moving water can pull you down. If you hear crackling or buzzing noises, leave the area immediately; these sounds often signal an electrical hazard. If you ever find yourself stuck in a current, climb to the highest point you can and call 911. For drivers, never cross shallow water on roads. Just one foot of rushing water can pull a car away. Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially trucks that spray water and block your view. Reduce speed, keep a two‑second gap to the car in front, and use headlights when visibility is low. If rain makes your windshield hard to see, pull over safely and wait for conditions to clear. During heavy rains, the ground can become saturated, leading to more runoff and higher chances of flooding. The best defense is staying informed about weather updates and listening to local officials. By preparing ahead and following simple safety rules, residents can keep themselves and their property safe while the rain comes.