Hazards of Flood

A great deal of the United States has witnessed record rainfall over the past several weeks for this time of year. Parts of the country that are usually not exposed to much rainfall have been flooded with abrupt storms bring about flash flooding in many areas.


More than half of flood fatalities occur on the road. Persons are drowned when the water is worse than expected or when they are caught in hidden wreckage. The engine may conk out when it gets wet or the current brush away the vehicle off the road.

In several parts of this country, flooding is a driving risk year-round. Rainfall or snowmelt at a higher altitude may generate floods downstream, filling dry gulley with rushing water. Flashfloods come up rapidly and can destroy a car. Standing water on a roadway may seem safe to cross and the occupants of the car become stuck by rising water.

If you do not want to find yourself in a situation like this, adhere to these precautions:

Pay attention to weather and flood warnings. Keep away from flood areas. If you have to go anywhere, check radio and television information for news of which areas to shun. Don’t drive through a flooded area. If you find by chance a flooded road, turn around and go another way. Do not walk through flooded areas. Even a few inches of rushing water might knock you off your feet. Be very cautious each time you see water over a road. Even shallow water might hide a washout of a road or bridge, as well as rubbish being moved by the flood. If you are caught driving in floodwaters, be mindful your car might float briefly but will be moved by currents and will sink. Be particularly cautious at night, when it is harder to identify flood dangers.

Though every emergency is unique, usually the best recommendation is to get out of your vehicle as soon as it stalls in floodwater. Do not keep trying to start the vehicle. Many deaths have been caused by people struggling to move a stalled vehicle. Get out and head for high ground fast and cautiously. You many imagine your vehicle is a safe place to be in a flood. As a matter of fact, it is one of the most dangerous. Six inches of water may cause the car to go out of control. In just 18 inches the vehicle will begin to float, and then the driver has no way of steering or stopping.

Driving dangers are amongst several severe hazards related to floods. Knock down power lines causing electrocution, unsteady building structures, landslides, chemical and biological risks in areas affected by floodwaters are also dangers to life and health.

If you stay in a flood-prone area, be ready. Ascertain at least two escape routes. Have emergency supplies packed. Leave home timely if you have to get out rather than waiting till travel is dangerous.

Flooding is one of the most popular disasters in this country, second only to fire. Study about the flood history in your area, and be prepared to travel to safety if required.