flash flood
Safety

How to Drive Safely in a Flash Flood

Hurricane Ida recently subjected New York City and the surrounding area to a series of flash floods. The extreme and heavy rainfall caused sodden streets, submerged subways, and dangerous living conditions for thousands of residents. While the flash flood was short, the damage is immense. Citizens are doing their best to adjust, with some having to sort through spoiled goods and belongings marred by the heavy rains. 

The heartbreaking destruction of Ida in Louisiana and the remaining parts of the U.S. brings about greater awareness for flash flood safety. Unfortunately, every city and state is in danger of flash floods. No area is out of harm’s way when the weather decides to take a turn for the worse. Because the water rises so quickly, infrastructure is not able to sustain the overflow of water. Storm drains quickly begin to loose efficacy.

Because of this, your vehicle might experience considerable damage or be swept away by the rain flow. A parked car could be found blocks down the road because of the heavy currents. Moreover, it’s vital to protect yourself throughout the flash flood by staying away from flooded streets. If you wind up in heavy waters while driving, here are the best precautions to take to keep yourself and others safe on the road:

Avoid driving through the water during a flash flood

Water levels can be deceiving during a flash flood. Therefore, it’s imperative to avoid driving through flood water. Even six inches of flooding can affect the function and control of your vehicle. The best advice is to determine another route before proceeding forward, even if that gets you further away from your intended destination. 

Stay informed

According to the American Red Cross, staying informed is one of the most important aspects of flash flood safety. The organization states, “Listen to local radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.” In addition, it’s vital to keep an emergency safety kit in your vehicle at all times. That way, when a flash flood occurs, you’ll be better equipped with the basics in the case an emergency unfolds. 

Escape if necessary 

Since flash floods create a downpour in an instant, it’s hard to judge the situation and your overall level of safety. While keeping optimism seems like the right thing to do, you really don’t know if or when the rain will let up. If the storm seems severe, it’s important to leave your car before it becomes completely submerged. While nerves might get to you, remember to stay calm and use the window as an escape method if possible.  

Flash flood safety is a priority for every citizen

The main priority during heavy storms is to maintain your personal safety. If you’re driving when the heavy rains begin, this is not ideal. Luckily, there are simple ways to keep yourself and others safe. Follow the steps outlined above and avoid down power lines or walking through water at all costs. Until the water has cleared, it’s hard to know what lies underneath the rain flow. 

Remember flash flood safety can occur at any time. Just this year alone this type of flooding have affected various towns in Texas, Arizona, Tennessee, and Florida too. Therefore, take the time to familiarize yourself with flash flood safety methods. Visit the National Weather Service website for more information regarding this important safety concern in 2021.

 

 

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Michaella Malone
Michaella Malone is a content specialist and full-time freelancer with 5+ years of experience working with small businesses on online platforms. She is a graduate of Florida State University (Go Noles!) and avid traveller, having visited over 25 countries and counting. In addition to blogging, ghostwriting, and social media content, she has contributed to the development of English as a Second Language (ESL) curriculums for international programs.

    1 Comment

    1. I live in a flash flood prone area and I never drive in it. I always keep my car up on higher land too.

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