On Sunday afternoon, the National Weather Service office in Upton, NY, issued two weather alerts for the Union County area, including Springfield.

A Wind Advisory, covering 1 PM on Monday, January 23, to 1 AM on Tuesday, reports expected winds from the northeast with speeds between 25 and 35 miles per hour, and gusts up to 55 miles per hour. Winds could begin gusting as high as 40 mph just before daybreak Monday. The strongest winds are expected Monday afternoon and evening.

At the same time, a Flood Watch in effect from Monday afternoon through late Monday night. An area of low pressure will develop and strengthen off the mid-Atlantic coast on Monday and then slowly track just south and east of the region Monday night into Tuesday, causing moderate to heavy rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches, with locally higher amounts approaching 4 inches.

A Wind Advisory is issued when sustained winds of 31 to 39 MPH or gusts of 46 to 57 MPH are expected or occurring. Winds this strong can make driving difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Additionally, winds can be expected to bring down weakened trees and limbs as well as power lines.

The National Weather Service reminds the area that a Flood Watch means there is a potential for flooding based on current forecasts. You should monitor later forecasts and be alert for possible flood warnings. Those living in areas prone to flooding should be prepared to take action should flooding develop.