More than half of flood fatalities are vehicle related when trapped occupants are swept downstream in their vehicles. When you think of a foot or two of water, drowning may not seem top of mind. Yet, vehicle flood fatalities top the statistics for deaths due to flooding.
From a scientific standpoint, the National Weather Service discusses how quickly and easily your vehicle can be swept away when driving through flooded areas:
- Water weighs 62.4 lbs per cubic foot and typically flows downstream at 6 to 12 miles per hour
- When a vehicle stalls in the water, the water’s momentum is transferred to the car
- For each foot the water rises, 500 lbs of lateral force are applied to the car
- Buoyancy becomes the biggest factor—for each foot the water rises, the car displaces 1,500 lbs of water (which means the car weighs 1,500 pounds less for each foot of rising water).
Just TWO feet of water will carry away most automobiles!
Flash Floods: What You Need To Know
NEVER drive through flooded roadways! Even if the water doesn’t LOOK too deep, the part of the road you can’t actually see may no longer be intact, as the force of the water may have washed it away.
Aside from driving, flash floods can cause catastrophic damage to homes and businesses. Know your area’s flood risk, speak with your insurance agent about getting flood insurance, and become educated about how flash floods can impact your home or business.
The worst flood in United States history occurred in Johnstown, Pennsylvania in 1889; when after a heavy rainfall, a catastrophic failure of the South Fork Dam caused a 36-foot wall of water to rush through the town. More than 2,000 people perished.
Flash floods typically occur within minutes to hours of a significant rain event. These floods can roll boulders, destroy homes and businesses, knock out roadways and bridges, and even set off a mudslide!
If you’ve experienced flooding in your home or business, you know firsthand the level of destruction. As the waters recede, they leave behind mud and debris covering all of your belongings, even moving heavy appliances or furniture from their original locations. It is important to act quickly to get your damaged property dried out and repaired to avoid other potential issues including mold.
How To Prepare For A Flood Watch Or Warning
To prepare yourself and your family for a possible flooding event, consider the following:
- Stay informed about the storms in your area—follow local news and listen for alerts for flood watches and flood warnings
- A flood WATCH means flooding is possible in the specified area
- A flood WARNING means flooding has already been reported or is imminent. TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION!
- Consider a Family Disaster Plan—such as where to meet if you are separated at the time of flooding
- Make a disaster supply kit specific to your family. Include flashlights, phone chargers, water, food, cash, credit cards and medications.
- Discuss how to care for or transport a disabled or elderly family member
Each year, thousands of Americans are affected by flooding in the United States. Flood damage costs more than $3 billion annually in the US. While we cannot control when a flood might occur, educating yourself, preparing for emergencies, and learning about the topography in your own geographic area are all important safety measures.
Remember:
- Turn Around, Don’t Drown
- Be Prepared
- Stay Informed
Call a professional property restoration service company, such as Eastern Diversified Services, Inc., to have your damaged property repaired. EDS works with both homeowners and business owners and will work with your insurance company and FEMA to get your property restored.
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