On Sunday at 3:05 pm NWS Fort Worth TX issued a flood warning.
Urban and small stream flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected in parts of Tarrant County in North Texas until 6:15 p.m.
“Minor flooding in low-lying areas with poor drainage,” says the NWS. “Turn around, don’t drown when you encounter flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”
This notice is in effect until 6:15 p.m.
NWS Recommendations for Staying Safe During a Flood
For residents or campers in low-lying, flood-prone areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground. Follow evacuation instructions without delay. If weather permits, lock your home when you leave and unplug utilities and appliances. Avoid entering basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged in water. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, popping, popping or popping noises, evacuate the area immediately. Avoid entering waters that may contain electricity and avoid walking through floodwaters. Even six inches of moving water can pose a serious risk of knocking you over. If you become trapped by moving water, get to the highest point possible, contact emergency services and dial 911.
When heavy rains occur, there is a risk of flooding, especially in low-lying, flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it is. According to the NWS, just a foot of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles.
What to do in the rain on the road?
• Turn on your headlights — Even when it’s light outside, using your headlights can improve visibility and alert other drivers to your presence.
• On the road – Drive in the middle lanes and stay on high ground. Rainwater tends to accumulate on roadsides.
• Stay away from puddles — Driving through puddles or areas with little rainwater can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
• Do not follow large vehicles too closely — Large vehicles such as trucks or buses can create sprays of water that can reduce your visibility.
• Avoid flooded areas — When you encounter a flooded road, turn around and go back. Strong currents from flash floods can take drivers off the roads. Driving through deep water can also negatively affect the vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle begins to slide uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the weight of the vehicle can move the water out of the way. The water pressure causes the vehicle to rise and slide over a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, causing the driver to lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:
1. Vehicle Speed — When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tires’ traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decrease. Drive at reduced speeds during rainy weather.
2. Water depth — The deeper the water, the sooner the vehicle loses traction on the road. No matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth – It is important to check the tire tread before hitting the road, as low tread or no tread can cause slippage.
If your vehicle hydroplans, here’s what you should know:
• Ease off the accelerator — Step on the accelerator to slow the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Skidding — Skidding can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect to the road — While skidding, wait until the tires reconnect to the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed — Brake normally if your vehicle has antilock brakes and pump the brakes gently if you are in an older vehicle.
Source: National Weather Service
