With multiple flood alerts issued through Friday morning, it's important that we use plenty of caution on the roads. Here are some things to remember before you drive!
The key thing to remember is "turn around, don't drown." This is a slogan started by the National Weather Service, and it reminds us to never attempt to drive through standing water. It can often be hard to tell how deep standing water is, so just turn around and take a different route.
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water. It does not take much time for heavy rainfall to lead to rapid water rises, especially in low-lying areas or areas around rivers and streams.
It does not take much water at all to move objects. If water is moving swiftly, it only takes six inches to sweep away a person. If there is a foot of water, it can sweep away a car. Once you get to a foot and a half, even smaller trucks can be swept away. Don't try to risk it, and find an alternate route.
The WRAL Weather App has great resources for you to use for free that show current alerts from the National Weather Service, forecast rainfall over the 48 hours, and much more. It is all in the "Radar" section of the app.
Please be cautious on the roads always, but especially during periods of heavy rain and flash flooding.