Springtime flood warnings are already going up for many areas along the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio and Tennessee rivers. An unusually active winter weather pattern has built up the snow pack in the upper wind west and southern Canada, posing a big problem if the U.S. sees normal or above normal rainfall this spring. In areas where springtime flooding becomes a major problem, it’s important for residents to think safety in order to prevent loss of life.
Driving Through Flood Waters
One of the most common causes of flood-related tragedies involves drivers attempting to maneuver their vehicles through swiftly rising floodwaters. It’s not uncommon to see a water flow that appears only an inch or two deep, only to have it become a raging river in a matter of minutes. Yet what most people don’t realize is that just 2 inches of water flowing at a quick enough rate can pick up a passenger vehicle and move it swiftly down the road. Drivers caught in such a scenario face the real risk of loss of life. For your own protection, never attempt to drive across moving floodwaters for any reason. Better to be inconvenienced than to place your life in jeopardy.
Stay Off Bridges
Another common springtime flooding tradition that can lead to disastrous results is attempting to observe floodwaters while perched on a bridge. If there is not enough clearance between the bridge and the water, the bridge becomes an impact point for any debris being carried downstream. Large tree trunks for instance, can smash against the bridge and send debris flying up into the air which could cause injury. Furthermore, if a given bridge sustains enough continual pounding, it can also break free and be washed away.
Heed Evacuation Orders
Government officials are charged with protecting the safety of local residents during any kind of disaster, including floods, so it’s important to give them the benefit of the doubt when evacuation orders are given. Heed those warnings and get out as soon as possible. As so many residents of New Orleans found out in 2005, trying to survive while seeking refuge in the attic or on the rooftop is a bad idea. Not only can you get into trouble if there’s no one to rescue you, but fast-moving waters could very well take your house right off its foundation and carry it downstream.
Springtime flooding is something that residents living near major rivers are well accustomed to. But when the flooding is severe, and such rivers overrun their banks by several feet, it’s not something to be trifled with. Fast-running water damages property and takes lives every year. So stay safe by thinking “safety first.”
