As Kansas City area sees chance of flash floods, here’s how to stay safe on the road
Here are a few tips to keep yourself — and others — safe while you drive in heavy rain.
How to be safe in flash floods
Drivers should take their time on the road and turn on their headlights.
Most flood deaths are related to vehicles, according to the National Weather Service, which reminds people to “turn around, don’t drown” in the event of a flood. Just a foot of rushing water can carry a small vehicle. Instead of driving through the water of unknown depths and speeds, find another route.
Areas at risk include small creeks, highways, and low-lying areas, according to the weather service.
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard.
More than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into flood waters. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Never drive on flood covered roads as the road may have collapsed under the water. An adult can be knocked over by 6 inches of fast-moving water. A foot of water can carry away most cars and 2 feet of water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
What to do if you hydroplane
You should also be aware of hydroplaning, which can happen with just 1/12 inch of rain on the road and speeds of 35 mph. That’s when excess water causes your tires to lose traction with the road. If you do start to hydroplane, according to State Farm, slowly let off the gas and steer straight. If your car starts spinning, turn — slowly — in the same direction.
Drivers should also stay alert in slick conditions, slow down and allow extra time to stop. Additionally, drivers should turn off cruise control and turn on your headlights.
This story was originally published April 28, 2021 at 4:56 PM.
