Dangers of Flash Flooding

3/23/2018 (Permalink)

An average of 75 people have died in the U.S. from flash floods each year from 2004-2013, according to the National Weather Service. That's more than double the average death toll from lightning

Almost two of every three U.S. flash flood deaths from 1995-2010, occurred in vehicles, according to Dr. Greg Forbes, severe weather expert for The Weather Channel.

The single worst decision you can make in a flash flood is driving your vehicle into floodwaters of unknown depth. 

It's easy to misjudge the depth of floodwater, particularly at night. Sometimes the bridge or road masked by flood water may have been undermined or completely washed out. 

In some cases, the flash flood event occurs over such a localized area, say one part of one county or city, that driving conditions may go from dry roads to high water in a matter of a few miles. Only 2 feet of water can float a large vehicle or even a bus, therefore you should never drive through flooded roads If you come upon water standing on the road turn around and go back the way you came, do not cross over because you don't know exactly how deep the water is.

Furthermore, just 6 inches of rapidly moving flood water can knock a person down and carry them away.

Always heed warning and seek shelter when your area will be affected by torrential rains.