Should You Leave Your Vehicle If Caught In Rapidly Rising Waters?

Risks of Staying in Your Vehicle

When caught in rapidly rising waters, the biggest risk is being swept away by the flood. This is often the case when the water rises too quickly for you to escape, or if the vehicle is stuck in the water. In these situations, staying in your vehicle can be a death sentence. The average time it takes for a vehicle to be submerged in a flash flood is around 30 seconds, with the water rising as fast as 5-10 feet in a matter of minutes.

Escaping the Vehicle Safely

The key to escaping your vehicle safely is to stay calm, think clearly, and act quickly. As the water rises, look for a safe exit route, such as an open window or door. Avoid trying to drive through the floodwaters, as this can cause your vehicle to stall or get stuck. When exiting the vehicle, hold onto the door frame for support and move quickly to higher ground. If the water is too deep to walk, try to find something to float on, such as a piece of debris or a floating device.

What to Do If You’re Swept Away

If you’re swept away by the flood, your priority is to stay afloat and avoid panicking. Swim to the surface if you’re underwater, or cling to a floating object if you’re being carried away. Try to conserve energy and avoid thrashing about, as this can exhaust you quickly. If you’re being swept towards a body of water, such as a lake or ocean, try to swim towards the shore or a nearby island. If you’re in a wide, fast-moving body of water, try to swim across it at a 90-degree angle to the current, rather than downstream.