Worst-Case Wednesday: How to Survive a Flash Flood in a Car

Posted by Erin McInerney
 
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Everyone knows the age old saying “April showers bring May flowers.” And while a logical look at the average precipitation by month may show that this is not necessarily true, those who think worst-case scenario just KNOW that April is the most dangerous month for rain.
 
Furthermore, what happens if that innocent rain shower turns into a full-fledged flood? And what if you happen to be driving when that happens? Well, good thing The Ultimate Worst-Case Scenario Handbook is here to give you instructions on what to do. Because it’s always better to be safe than sorry. 

 
How to Survive a Flash Flood In a Car
 
Watch cars in front of you: If you see drivers stalling or notice water reaching halfway up car wheels, do not proceed.
 
Estimate the water depth: Water may be deeper than it appears. A car will stall (and float) in six inches of water. If you are unsure if a road is safe to drive through, get out of your car and check the water level using a stick. 
 
Exit the vehicle immediately if the car stalls or begins to float: If the door will not open, crawl out the window (you may need to break a power window if the car’s electronics become saturated).
 
Walk or run to safety: Get to higher ground as fast as possible. 
 
Float: If you are knocked off your feet by the rushing water, cover your head with your arms and attempt to float on your back, feetfirst, until you can grab a stationary object and climb to safety.