This is Severe Weather Awareness Week and today we talk about flash flooding. Floods kill more people in the United States each year than any other thunderstorm related hazard. Many flood deaths are the result of people driving into flooded roads. National Weather Service Meteorologist, Jon Woynic, says too many people tempt the flood waters. Not a good idea:
He adds that a vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds. Twelve inches of water can float a car or small SUV and 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.
He also cautions not to walk into flood water. It only takes six inches of moving water to throw a person off their feet. The water may be deeper that it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, snakes, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, even sewage. Turn around, don’t drown.
