April showers bring… May flowers flooded roadways? When thinking about spring flooding, the usual thought is basements full of water, but many people underestimate the dangers of flooded roads during and after these storms.
The most dangerous place to be during a flood is in a vehicle. According to the National Weather Service, a mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult and it only takes 2 feet of rushing water to carry away most vehicles. This includes pickups and SUVs, so even though your car is built tough, it might not fare well against flooded roadways.
Any amount of water can create unsafe driving conditions, but during a spring storm, pay extra attention to the road ahead. Underpasses can fill up rapidly with water—becoming a trap for drivers trying to get through. And, it only takes 5 inches of water on the ground to loose control of your car. When you approach any type of flooded roadway, just turn around.
Not all areas of caution will be marked, but when they are, follow all warning signs very seriously. Don’t think that the flood water isn’t that bad or has been cleared if there are still warning road signs posted. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to being stuck on a flooded roadway, so don’t try to drive around any barricades. Again, it’s best to just simply turn around.
Areas that are particularly at risk for flooding are those located in low-lying areas, near water, or downstream from a dam. Be sure to listen to all weather and flood warnings and be aware of the differences between a flood advisory, flood watch, and a flood warning.
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Flash Flood Advisory – Be Aware: A flood advisory will be issued when a weather event may become more severe.
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Flash Flood Watch – Be Prepared: A flood watch will be issued when conditions are likely to produce hazardous weather events. It does not mean that flooding will happen, but it is possible.
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Flash Flood Warning – Take Action: A flood warning will occur when the hazardous weather is pending or already occurring. This is the time to take action.
Floods can occur anywhere in the US, and it is very important to avoid all flooded roadways while driving. Being aware of the weather, paying attention to barricades, and not driving through standing water are just a few things that will get you through the upcoming bout of spring showers and thunderstorms.