KIRKSVILLE, Mo. — Many severe weather hazards occur in the Heartland. These include tornadoes, large hail, and damaging winds.
However, one threat that is often overlooked is flooding.
Flooding is the deadliest severe weather hazard in Missouri and the second deadliest weather hazard in the United States.
There may come a time when either a flash flood watch or flash flood warning will be issued.
A flash flood watch means that conditions are favorable for excessive rainfall in a short amount of time.
A warning means that a flash flood is currently ongoing and to take action immediately. Flooding is extremely dangerous for people in houses, but it is even deadlier for those in vehicles.
The national 30-year average for flood deaths is around 127 people per year and nearly half of all flash flood related fatalities are vehicle related.
It can only take around 6 inches of fast moving water to sweep a person away, and only 12 inches to sweep away a vehicle. Larger vehicles need only 18 inches of water.
If you come across a road that is covered with water, it is very hard to tell how deep the water is and the condition of the road underneath. This is especially true at night, when vision is limited.
It doesn’t matter if you are walking or driving, whenever you come across a flooded area, remember the phrase.
Turn around, don’t drown.
If you want to know more about flood safety and what to do before, during , and after a flood, you can visit the National Weather Service website for more information.