Kansas City is under flash flood watch. Here’s what to do if you get stuck while driving
If you encounter a large puddle of floodwater in your path while driving, think twice before you pass through it.
With Kansas City facing a flash flood watch from 5 p.m. Tuesday through Wednesday morning, avoiding driving in standing water could be a life-saving move.
The National Weather Service watch comes after firefighters responded Monday to multiple reports of stranded vehicles across the metro.
Storms dumped up to 7 inches of rain in six hours on the Kansas City area. This left rivers full and the ground saturated, increasing the risk of inundation. The Missouri River is at flood stage in Leavenworth, and it is expected to reach it later Tuesday in Parkville.
With multiple rounds of thunderstorms incoming, the Kansas City area is forecast to receive 1.5-2 inches of rain between Tuesday and Thursday, according to the NWS.
Driving through floodwater can be dangerous. Last year, 42 people died while driving in floods in the U.S., which is over half of the total flooding fatalities.
If you need to drive in the coming days, here is what you need to know about driving during a flood, from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service.
What should I do if I find standing flood water while driving?
Do not drive in standing water. It is hard to tell how deep the water is or if the road has washed out, especially at night. Back up and find a different route if you need to.
If your vehicle stalls in standing water, exit your car and go to higher ground.
What about fast-moving flood waters?
Stay out of rushing water. Six inches of high-velocity water can knock down an adult, while a foot can carry away most cars.
If your vehicle gets swept up, stay inside.
If rushing waters start to engulf the car, climb to the roof and call for help.
