Protect Yourself During Flash Floods

The end of October was marked with casualties and disaster for many areas of Texas. A band of storms spawned numerous other weather events like tornadoes and floods, causing devastating property losses in the region as well as 5 deaths attributed to weather-related phenomenon.

The reason for these deaths and much of the property losses is due to flooding, but these deaths may have been avoided if precautions had been taken to avoid the area. For instance, one of the deaths was the result of a man trying to drive to his home to assess the situation after he had heard of flash flooding. He was consequently swept away in his vehicle on the way back.

It may seem obvious to avoid flash flood areas when the alerts are issued, but here are some tips to protecting yourself during flash flooding:

• Stay on High Ground. Flash floods tend to occur in low-lying areas, so choose to seek shelter in higher elevations, and be careful to only drive on ridges instead of valleys.
  

• Never Drive Through a Flooded Area. This is where many casualties occur, as our perception of how flooded an area is and how safe the water currents are can be much different than the situation at hand. It can take much less than a foot of water to incapacitate a vehicle, and the flowing water may prevent you from opening your door. According to FEMA, a foot of water will float many vehicles, and 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickup trucks.
  

• Watch for Flooded Bridges. These bridges can be washed out at a moment’s notice, so take care especially to never drive across a flooded bridge.
  

• Be Careful When on Foot. The currents in a flood can carry debris which can be dangerous if you’re walking through flooded areas. If you have to walk or wade through flood water, use a stick to poke the ground in front of you with each step. It can help you determine water levels, the bottom surface and the safest possible way to get to higher ground.
  

When a flood is upon you, it pays to always be overly cautious. The moment you or your vehicle is swept away can be life-threatening, so take proactive and defensive measures to protect yourself. If a watch is issued, then that means that flooding is possible in your area, so stay tuned to your TV, move valuables to higher ground, and evacuate if you’re told to do so. A warning is much more serious and means that you may only have seconds to escape. Immediately seek safety, and don’t try to outrun the flood. Instead, immediately abandon your vehicle and seek higher ground.

Property can be replaced, but lives cannot. Take extra precautions during flash floods to ensure that you and your family is safe.