Update: Prepare for heavy rain in Jackson County early Wednesday evening

The National Weather Service issued an updated weather alert at 4:25 p.m. on Wednesday for heavy rain until 5 p.m. for Jackson County.

"At 4:22 p.m., Doppler radar tracked heavy rain and isolated thunderstorms from near Scottsboro moving northeast at 20 mph," says the weather service. "Heavy rainfall rates of around 1 inch per hour could cause ponding of water on area roadways. Allow extra time to get to your destination and extra driving distance in these areas."

Locations impacted by the alert include Scottsboro, Bridgeport, Stevenson, Hollywood, Section, Pisgah, Dutton, Bass, Martintown and Russell Cave National Monument.

According to the weather service, "If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building."

Navigating rainy roads: Safety tips for wet weather When heavy rain strikes, safety is paramount. Equip yourself with these guidelines from the weather service to navigate wet roads and avoid hazards:

Beware of rapid water flow:

During heavy rain, avoid playing near culverts or drainage ditches, where swift-moving water can pose a serious risk.

Maintain safe driving distances:

The two-second rule for following distance is your ally in heavy rain. Extend it to four seconds to ensure safe spacing in adverse conditions.

Slow down and drive with care:

On wet roads, reducing your speed is crucial. Ease off the gas pedal gradually and avoid abrupt braking to prevent skidding.

Choose your lane wisely:

Stick to the middle lanes to minimize the risk of hydroplaning. Outer lanes are more prone to accumulating water.

Visibility matters:

Enhance your visibility in heavy rain by turning on your headlights. Watch out for vehicles in blind spots, as rain-smeared windows can obscure them.

Watch out for slippery roads:

The first half-hour of rain is when roads are slickest due to a mix of rain, grime, and oil. Exercise heightened caution during this period.

Keep a safe distance from large vehicles:

Large trucks and buses can reduce your visibility with tire spray. Avoid tailgating and pass them swiftly and safely.

Mind your windshield wipers:

Overloaded wiper blades can hinder visibility. If rain severely limits your sight, pull over and wait for conditions to improve. Seek refuge at rest areas or protected spots. When stopping roadside, position your vehicle as far off the road as possible, ideally beyond guardrails. Keep your headlights on and activate emergency flashers to alert other drivers.

In the face of heavy rain, these precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety on the road. Remember to stay informed about weather conditions and heed guidance from local authorities for a secure journey.