BIRMINGHAM– The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Advisory for Blount, Calhoun, Etowah, and St. Clair counties.

The advisory remains in effect until 6:45 p.m. Friday.

Forecasters expect excessive rainfall to cause urban and small stream flooding. Minor flooding could develop in low-lying areas and locations with poor drainage.

Doppler radar indicated heavy rain from thunderstorms at 3:33 p.m. The National Weather Service said the rainfall will cause urban and small stream flooding.

Communities included in the advisory include Gadsden, Anniston, Jacksonville, Rainbow City, Oneonta, Attalla, Hokes Bluff, Blountsville, Cleveland, Saks, and Glencoe.

The affected area also includes Weaver, Ashville, Ragland, Locust Fork, Ohatchee, Steele, Altoona, Snead, and Susan Moore.

Drivers should never attempt to cross a flooded roadway. The National Weather Service reminds motorists to “turn around, don’t drown.” Most flood-related deaths occur in vehicles.