The National Weather Service warned of an elevated flood risk in central and southern Illinois through Saturday evening, predicting an estimated rainfall of 4-6 inches in certain areas.

Here's what residents need to know about staying safe during floods as heavy rainfall continues through the weekend.

How to stay safe in areas with flooding

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard, according to the NWS .

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.

The most important thing to remember in areas where there is flooding is: " Turn around, don't drown ."

It is crucial that you turn around if you see standing or flowing water, as it only takes 12 inches of water to sweep your car away. If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground.

The NWS advises commuters to never drive around barriers blocking flooded areas and to follow signage that advises you to turn around. It is possible for roads to collapse underwater, making them impossible for drivers to see.

Flood waters can also hide rocks, trees, trash and other debris that can be dangerous to someone in their path.

Flood terminology explained

If flooding is possible or expected, you should know the difference between a watch, advisory and warning, according to the NWS .

Flooding in Illinois

The NWS offers an interactive map on its website that teaches the types of flooding most commonly experienced by states and how you can stay safe in flooded areas.

On the Illinois page , the service warns of flash flooding, river flooding, ice/debris jams and more. It also includes links to the websites for the Central Illinois and Chicago NWS offices.

Central Illinois weather radar

Chicago weather radar