Typical flowing floodwaters apply 500 pounds of lateral force per foot of water depth. Even a foot of fast flowing floodwaters can overpower a moving vehicle. A vehicle displaces 1500 pounds of water for every foot of water. Floodwaters only 2 feet deep will cause a vehicle less than 3000 pounds to float. Nearly half of all flash flood deaths are automobile-related.
Flooding can occur suddenly at any time of day, during any month of the year.
The following are some helpful flood safety tips that we should all remember. Be prepared, be aware, and be ready to take action. Know your elevation and how flood-prone your location is. Local emergency management officials have information about the flood stage water level in your area. Homeowner's or renter's insurance policies typically do not include flood insurance.