Safe Driving Suggestions – Floods

Flood Safety

Keep in mind suggestions for driving in thunderstorms.

* Flooding can occur as streams and rivers flow over their banks, when dams or levees break, with run-off from deep snow cover, or any time there is rainfall with significant duration and intensity.

* Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall, or when a dam or levee fails and even a sudden release of water held by an ice or debris jam. Be cautious during storm seasons, or any time that flooding is common in your area.

* You may not have warning that a flash flood is approaching.

* Do not drive unless necessary.

* Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded-out roadway ahead, turn around and find another route to get to your destination.

* If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.

* Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can conceal dips, or worse, floodwaters can damage roadways, washing away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground.

* If your car stalls, abandon it immediately and climb to higher ground.

* Remember, 6 inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.

* One foot of water will float many vehicles.

* Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including SUV’s and pick-ups.

Sources: FEMA.gov, NOAA.gov