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Nearly half of all flood-related fatalities in the U.S. involve vehicles. Most of these deaths happen when people drive into flooded highway dips or low drainage areas. Saving your life can be as easy as turning your car around when you see water on the road. Never try to drive through flooded roadways, and do NOT drive around barricades at Low Water Crossings.
Even in relatively shallow water, tires can act as flotation devices lifting up even big vehicles and sending them downstream. Two feet of water is enough to float a 3,000-pound car. Also, keep in mind that water covering roadways may hide washed-out bridges or gouged-out roadbeds. If you try to drive across, you may not be driving on a road.
Even on a clear day, flash flooding can occur due to rain happening several miles upstream. Few people realize how fast water can rise in a small stream to flood a Low Water Crossing area. Despite your best efforts, you could find yourself in a flash flood situation. Whether walking or driving, here are some steps you should take:
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