07-03-2013 Safety Tips for Flash Flooding

Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard. Why? The main reason is people underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream. Of these drownings, many are preventable, but too many people continue to drive around the barriers that warn you the road is flooded.

Whether you are driving or walking, if you come to a flooded road, Turn Around, Don't Drown.TM You will not know the depth of the water nor will you know the condition of the road under the water.

* The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.A foot of water will float many vehiclesTwo feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV's) and pick-ups.Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.Do not try to take short cuts. They may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Additional safety rules:

Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio, or your favorite news source for vital weather related information. If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc. Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams, or attempt to float down them in personal watercraft. Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly during threatening conditions.

* Flash Floods

Except for heat related fatalities, more deaths occur from flooding than any other hazard. Why? Most people fail to realize the power of water. For example, six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock you off your feet.

While the number of fatalities can vary dramatically with weather conditions from year to year, the national 30-year average for flood deaths is 127. That compares with a 30-year average of 73 deaths for lightning, 65 for tornadoes and 16 for hurricanes. National Weather Service data also shows:

Nearly half of all flash flood fatalities are vehicle-related, The majority of victims are males, and Flood deaths affect all age groups.

Most flash floods are caused by slow moving thunderstorms, thunderstorms that move repeatedly over the same area or heavy rains from tropical storms and hurricanes. These floods can develop within minutes or hours depending on the intensity and duration of the rain, the topography, soil conditions and ground cover.

Flash floods can roll boulders, tear out trees, destroy buildings and bridges, and scour out new channels. Rapidly rising water can reach heights of 30 feet or more. Furthermore, flash flood-producing rains can also trigger catastrophic mud slides.

* Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).