When it rains, it pours for a lot of us across Hampton Roads when summertime thunderstorms roll around. In fact, storms have flooded several streets across the area recently, making many roads impassable and leaving drivers to find new ways to get to and from work. However, some drivers have underestimated how deep some flooded streets can get when a lot of rain falls over an area in a short period of time, causing their cars to stall or worse.
According to the National Weather Service, more deaths occur due to flooding than any other weather hazard each year. What’s even more disturbing is that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that more than half of all flood-related drownings occur when a car is driven through flood water, an action that can be prevented.
Most flood-related injuries and deaths can be avoided if you remember this phrase: “Turn Around, Don’t Drown.” Never drive your car through a flooded street. Think about this. It only takes about two feet of rushing water to lift a car or SUV, which can cause it to roll over and trap those inside. And while it’s important to avoid flooded streets at any time during the day, it’s even more important at night when your vision is limited and it is much more difficult to recognize flood dangers.
You can stay ahead of the next storm and avoid those dangers by keeping an eye on the NewsChannel 3 Live VIPIR Forecast. We’ll let you know whether or not strong storms are likely for your commute. And remember, turning around could save your car but most importantly your life, something that cannot be replaced.
