Safe driving tips during flash floods

Flash floods can approach rapidly and unexpectedly, especially in tropical climates like ours and during hurricane season. You might not always receive a warning that a flash flood is approaching.

Jennifer Silvey, emergency preparedness manager at UF Health Jacksonville, offers safe driving tips for driving in heavy thunderstorms or flash floods.

What should I do if I’m already on the road in a thunderstorm?

• Avoid areas that are already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• Reduce your speed, turn on your low beams and windshield wipers and increase your distance between other vehicles.

How can I avoid hydroplaning?

• Keep your tires properly inflated
• Rotate and replace tires when necessary
• Slow down when roads are wet – the faster you drive, the harder it is for your tires to scatter the water
• Stay away from puddles and standing water
• Avoid driving in outer lanes where water tends to accumulate
• Try to drive in the tire tracks left by the cars in front of you
• Turn off cruise control
• Drive in a lower gear
• Avoid hard braking – slow your speed and keep both hands on the steering wheel
• Try not to make sharp or quick turns

If you see a flooded area ahead, always remember to turn around and don’t drown!