Useful tips when encountering floods

Areas that experience slow-moving storms or back-to-back downpours could see localized flash flooding. This last case is exactly what will happen across many parts of central and southern California starting Saturday evening through late Tuesday. Please drive safely and follow the following tips.

Although driving in flooded areas and heavy rain is best avoided, it is essential to stay safe if you absolutely need to travel. Continue reading below for tips on how to drive carefully in heavy rain and flooding, especially if you are traveling.

Before you start driving, check where the flood warnings are and view the WeatherRadar for your area. Try to avoid these routes where flood warnings are issued or are experiencing heavy rain. Secondly, you should check your windscreen and rear-view wipers. Make sure they are working well, as you will be relying on them for visibility.

When driving, have your lights on; this will increase visibility for you and those around you. It is also essential to leave a more significant gap between you and other cars as your stopping distance will be greater. Never drive fast to risk skidding or hydroplaning.

Lastly, never drive across a flooded area. Water often prevents the driver from adequately estimating the water's depth or knowing if the road has collapsed beneath. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars, and only 2 feet of flowing water can carry away SUVs and trucks.

If you have no option to detour and the water is less than 4 inches deep, slowly drive through the shallowest part. Meanwhile, maintain speed to prevent water from going into the exhaust. After you have passed the flood, check your brakes when it is safe to do so.

Above anything else, take extra caution should you have to drive in a risky flood or heavy rain conditions, and remember, it is never completely safe to drive or walk into floodwaters.