Severe Weather Preparedness Week: Flooding facts and safety

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Flooding is one of the deadliest weather events in the U.S. The only thing deadlier is heat.  That means more people die from floods each year than tornadoes, lightning, or hurricanes.   

Over the past 10 years, an average of 99 people have died in floods each year. Many deaths are a result of people driving through flooded roads.  

Remember, it only takes 18 inches of flowing water to carry away most vehicles, including SUVs.   

Six inches of moving water can sweep you off your feet.   

It is impossible to tell how deep the water is that is covering a roadway or the condition of the road underneath the water. This is especially true at night, so anytime you come to a flooded road, walkway, or path, follow this simple rule, turn around, don’t drown.  

Also, remember these tips: 

• Know your flood risk. You can find out if you live in a flood plain by visiting msc.fema.gov
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams, rivers, or creeks. 
• Stay away from areas that are subject to flooding like underpasses or poor drainage areas.