GREENSBORO, N.C. — Flash flooding is the number one storm-related killer in the United States, according to the National Weather Service.
FLASH FLOODING KILLS
At least 127 people die each year due to flash flooding. Why so many deaths? Often times, people think they can drive safely through a flooded road then realize they can’t which can become too late.
It takes just six inches of water to make it more difficult to control your vehicle. A vehicle can be swept away in 18 to 24 inches of water. That’s why you’ll hear so many times, “TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!”
WHAT IS FLASH FLOODING?
A flash flood is a rapid rise of water along a stream or in a low-lying urban area. Flash flooding can result from slow-moving thunderstorms, from numerous thunderstorms which develop repeatedly over the same area, or from heavy rains associated with tropical cyclones. These floods may develop within minutes, depending on the intensity of the rainfall, the topography, soil conditions, and ground cover, according to the National Weather Service.
(Video captured in 2018 of flooding in the Piedmont Triad)
FLOODING SAFETY TIPS
- Remember to TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN!
- If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Never drive around barricades. Local responders use them to safely direct traffic out of flooded areas.
- If your vehicle is trapped in rapidly moving water, then stay inside. If water is rising inside the vehicle, then seek refuge on the roof.
- If trapped in a building, then go to its highest level. Do not climb into a closed attic. You may become trapped by rising floodwater. Go on the roof only if necessary. Once there, then signal for help.
- Stay away from high water, storm drains, ditches, ravines, or culverts.
- 12 inches of water can carry away a small car.
- 18 inches of water can wash away a vehicle.
- More than half of ALL flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into floodwaters.
- Many flash flood deaths occur at night.
- 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet.
- It takes only 2 feet of water to float away most vehicles.
- Never walk through floodwaters.
- If you’re trapped by moving water move to the highest point and call 911.
- If line markings on the road are not visible, DO NOT drive through the water.
- Avoid driving through pools of standing water.
- Purchase or renew a flood insurance policy. It typically takes up to 30 days for a policy to go into effect and can protect the life you've built. Homeowner’s policies do not cover flooding. Get flood coverage under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
KNOW YOUR FLOOD RISK
You can find out the types of flood risk for your area by checking out the following:
- Know types of flood risk in your area. Visit FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center for information.
- Check out: NC Flood Maps
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TWITTER VS. FACEBOOK FOR WEATHER UPDATES
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REPORTING POWER OUTAGES
Duke Energy: 1-800-POWERON, 1-800-769-3766 Customers may also report an outage or view current outages online
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