About 40 percent of flood deaths occur in motor vehicles. Never attempt to drive into a flooded roadway. It only takes about two feet of water to float most cars. Motorists that actually survive being swept away while attempting to drive through a flooded road often report they thought the water level was only a few inches deep.- Even if the vehicle in front of you successfully crosses a water-covered road, it is best to find an alternate route or to wait. If you get stuck, you are not only risking your own life, but the lives of rescue personnel.
- Trucks and four-wheel drive vehicles are also susceptible to being swept away by high water. Such vehicles often give motorists a false sense of security, believing they can drive through high water. This belief results in numerous deaths or emergency rescues of motorists in vehicles either stuck or swept away by flood waters.
- Flood-related deaths also occur when people attempt to walk into a flooded area. It only takes as little as six inches of water to cause unstable footing. Many flood-related deaths also occur at night when it is difficult to recognize the dangers of a water-covered road.
- If you live in a low-lying area or near a creek, pay close attention to water levels during heavy rain events. Water rises rapidly during flash floods, often taking victims by surprise. Be prepared to move quickly to higher ground if water levels begin rising rapidly.
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