People underestimate the force and power of water. Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.

Many of the deaths occur in cars swept downstream, and many of these drownings are preventable. Never drive around barriers blocking a flooded road. The road may have collapsed under that water. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and just 2 feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.

It is never safe to drive into flood waters. It's also not safe to walk into flood waters.

The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters. A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock an adult off their feet. 

In Northwest Arkansas, flash flooding can be sudden and extremely dangerous. Heavy amounts of rain can fall quickly from strong thunderstorms, leading to flash floods year-round, but especially in the spring. Flood waters can rise quickly, especially in areas where there is poor drainage. Here are some additional tips to help you stay safe during a flood:

Before a Flood

• Stay Informed: Tune into local news and weather reports for flood watches and warnings. 
• Know Your Area: Identify flood-prone areas and evacuation routes. 
• Prepare an Emergency Kit: Have a bag ready with essentials like water, food, medications and a first-aid kit. 
• Secure Your Home: Elevate appliances and electrical components, and install backflow valves or plugs for drains and sewer connections. 
• Clear Gutters and Downspouts: Ensure proper drainage to prevent water buildup. 
• Know Your Evacuation Plan: Have a plan for where to go and how to get there if you need to evacuate. 

During a Flood

• Heed Evacuation Orders: Evacuate immediately if ordered by local authorities.
• Avoid Floodwaters: Do not walk, swim or drive through floodwaters.
• "Turn Around, Don't Drown!": Even a small amount of moving water can be dangerous.
• Stay off Bridges: Avoid bridges over fast-moving water.
• Get to Higher Ground: If you are trapped, move to the highest possible point.
• Practice Electrical Safety: Don't go into a basement or any room if water covers electrical outlets or if cords are submerged.
• If Driving: Be aware that roadbeds under floodwaters may be severely damaged, and avoid driving through flooded roadways.

After a Flood

• Stay Safe at Home: If you cannot evacuate, stay at the highest level of your home.
• Clean and Disinfect: Clean and disinfect anything that got wet, wearing appropriate protective gear.
• Be Aware of Hazards: Watch out for debris and potential dangers in floodwaters.
• Use Generators Safely: Use generators or other gas-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.
• Wash Your Hands: Wash your hands thoroughly after contact with floodwater.

For more information about how to protect yourself during a flood, please visit www.floodsmart.gov, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention or the National Weather Service.