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Floods are
the most common and widespread of all
weather-related natural disasters. And
flash floods are the most dangerous kind
of floods, because they combine the
destructive power of a flood with
incredible speed and unpredictability.
Many weather conditions can cause a
flash flood. They're often the result of
heavy rainfall from slow-moving
thunderstorms or new thunderstorms
developing and moving over the same area
or from the rain of hurricanes or
tropical storms concentrated over one
area.
Rapidly rising water creating a flash
flood may occur with little warning.
Every year, more deaths are caused by
flooding than from any other severe
weather related hazard. Why? The main
reason is that people underestimate the
force and power of water.
Did you know that as little as six
inches of moving water can knock you off
your feet or cause you to lose control
of your car&
And just two feet of water can cause a
car even a big SUV to be swept off a
road or bridge.
When cars are swept downstream into fast
moving water often, the people inside
them drown.
Tragically, emergency responders are
often injured or killed as they attempt
to rescue individuals trapped by
flooding.
But many of these deaths are
preventable.
Whether you are driving or walking, if
you come to a flooded road, follow this
simple rule: Turn Around Don't Drown.
Dont take a chance and cross a flooded
road or bridge because you cant
determine the depth of water or the
condition of the road or bridge.
FLASH and the National Weather Service
have some simple guidelines to help you
and your family stay safe in flooding
situations:
Do not camp or park your vehicle along
rivers, streams or washes, particularly
during threatening conditions.
If flooding occurs, get to higher
ground. Stay away from areas subject to
flooding like low spots, valleys,
canyons or washes.
Avoid areas already flooded, especially
if the water is flowing fast. Never try
to cross flowing streams.
NEVER let your children play near
flooded streams, storm drains, bayous,
roads, rivers or creeks.
NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
Road beds or bridges may be washed out
under flood waters.
Never drive around the barriers that
warn you the road is flooded.
Be especially cautious at night when it
is harder to recognize flood dangers.
Always remember, if youre in doubt Turn
Around Dont Drown.
And visit flash.org for more information
about strengthening your home and
safeguarding your family from disaster.
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