• Nearly 50 percent of all flash flood fatalities
nationwide involve vehicles. Saving your life can
be as easy as turning your car around when you see
water on the road. Never attempt to drive through
flooded roadways.
• Even in relatively shallow water, tires can act as
flotation devices, lifting up big vehicles and
sending them downstream. It takes only two feet of
water to float a 3,000-pound car.
• Beware that water covering roadways may hide
washed-out bridges or gouged-out roadbeds. If you
attempt to drive across, you may not be driving on
a road.
• In rainy weather, be alert and stay tuned to local
radio or TV.
• If you are in a low-lying area when flooding is
occurring, get to higher ground quickly. And be
sure to avoid canyons and washes that can channel
swift water.
• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or streams
on foot. It can take as little as six inches of
water to knock an adult off his or her feet.
Furthermore, water may be flowing more rapidly
than it appears.
• Never allow children to play near ditches and
storm drains.
• During stormy weather, do not camp or park
vehicles along streams or washes.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder
to see flood dangers.