Flooded Roads: Turn Around, Don’t Drown
More than half of flood deaths in the U.S. happen in vehicles, usually when drivers try to cross flooded roads. Water can look shallow and calm while hiding a washed-out road, and it takes far less water than most people think to float a car.
- All drivers
- Work vehicles
Photo: flooded underpass with a “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” sign
How little water it takes
| Depth | What can happen |
|---|---|
| About 6 inches | Can reach the bottom of many cars, causing loss of control or stalling |
| About 1 foot | Can float many vehicles |
| About 2 feet of moving water | Can sweep away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickups |
Hidden dangers
- The road under the water may be washed out or collapsed.
- Water may be much deeper than it looks, especially in dips and underpasses.
- Moving water is far more powerful than it appears.
- Floodwater can hide debris, open manholes and downed power lines. See Downed Power Lines.
- Floodwater is often contaminated with sewage and chemicals.
Turn around
- Never drive into flooded roads or around barricades.
- Be extra careful at night, when you can’t see water on the road.
- Watch for flood warnings and avoid low-lying roads, creek crossings and underpasses during heavy rain.
- Don’t drive through water near downed power lines.
- If you’re a work crew, don’t send vehicles or equipment through flooded areas “to get to the job.”
If your car is caught in water
- Unbuckle your seat belt.
- Unlock the doors and open or break a side window right away, while the power still works.
- Get children out first (oldest first, so they can help).
- Get out and onto higher ground, or onto the roof if you can’t reach high ground.
- Call 911 when you’re safe.
Keep a window-breaking and seat-belt-cutting tool within reach of the driver’s seat. Car doors are very hard to open once water rises against them.
After a flood
A car that has been in floodwater may have damaged brakes, electronics and airbags. Have it inspected before driving. See Hurricanes & Floods and Cleaning Up After a Flood.
Standards & references
Last updated: