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Flash flooding can occur unexpectedly; drivers should know what to (or not) do

Subhead
Ask A Trooper
Lead Summary
By
Sgt. Troy Christianson, Minnesota Highway Patrol

Question: I saw your recent article about flooded roads. Do you have any advice on what a person should do if their vehicle plunges into the water?
Answer: The dynamics of such an incident are ever-changing, so there is no one answer that will cover it all. Having witnessed and responded to these types of situations, here is what I would recommend.
Most vehicles will float on the water’s surface for 30 to 60 seconds. If your vehicle enters deep water, make every attempt to get out immediately. If possible, exit the vehicle through open windows before the water reaches the window level.
If your vehicle becomes submerged, try not to panic. Vehicle doors cannot be opened until water pressure inside the car is equal to that pressure outside. When the vehicle is completely filled, doors can be opened if there is no structural damage.
The engine’s weight will cause the front end of the car to sink first. The rear passenger compartment may provide an air pocket while you plan your escape strategy. If there are other people in the vehicle, determine their condition and try to exit the vehicle together.
I would advise everyone to take swimming lessons. This is a life skill that can save your life and the life of someone else.
Question: With spring being here and the melting snow, can you talk about what a person should do when coming across water on roads?
Answer: Flooding can occur when streams and rivers flow over their banks, when dams or levees break, when there is run-off from deep snow, or any time there is heavy rainfall. Floodwaters can be found on roads, bridges and low areas. Flash floods can come rapidly and unexpectedly. They can occur within a few minutes or hours of excessive rainfall.
•Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded roadway ahead, turn around and find another route to get to your destination.
•Be cautious, especially at night, when the visibility is limited.
•Remember, 6 inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
•Two feet of moving water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks.
•Even if the water appears shallow enough to cross, do not attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can hide dips, or worse, floodwaters can damage roadways by washing away the underlying road surface.
•If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.
If you have any questions concerning traffic-related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Sgt. Troy Christianson – Minnesota State Patrol at Statue 169.791 2900 48th Street NW, Rochester MN 55901-5848.  (Or reach him at, Troy.Christianson@state.mn.us)

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