Tips for Driving in Flash Floods

Question 1

facts about flooding

Answer 1

• less than 1 inch of water can cause a driver to lose control of his or her car
• most vehicles can float in 2 feet of water of less
• cars traveling at high rate of speed can be pushed off the road by only 6 inches of water

Question 2

if encountered flooded roadway, don’t attempt to drive through it :
- turn around and seek an alternate route or wait until water subsides; although may look just few inches of water on roadway, it’s hard to determine the depth of floodwaters

Answer 2

if vehicle stalls in rising flood water and you can safely do so, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground; rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away
- once vehicles began to float, they move toward deep, fast-moving water where escape is more dangerous and top-heavy vehicles may roll over
if you find yourself in this situation, make a judgment call about whether you can make higher ground or if better off remaining with your vehicle; best way to turn around and avoid flooded roadways in the first place

Question 3

additional guidelines :

Answer 3

• be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers
• avoid already flooded areas and areas subject to sudden flooding; do not attempt to cross flowing streams or water flowing over roadway
• if driving and coming upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route; move to higher ground away from streams, creeks and flood control channels
• if route blocked by floodwaters or barricades, find another route.
  = barricades are put up by local officials to protect people from unsafe roads; never drive around barricades, can be a serious risk