Recent warm temperatures have brought spring like thawing of snow and ice. The movement of water within flood control structures, streams and rivers has greatly reduced ice thickness resulting in the ice quickly becoming unpredictable and unsafe. Caution is urged of anyone venturing outdoors.

Sheet flooding is a possibility during the remainder of our spring warm up. Sheet flooding occurs when normal drainage channels are blocked and flood water overtops roadways and open areas.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports more than half of all flood-related drowning occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood waters. The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters.

Many believe their 3,000 to 5,000 pound vehicle will remain in contact with the road surface and are too heavy to float. This belief is false as most vehicles will become buoyant and can be swept away in 18 to 24 inches of moving water. Trucks and SUVs are not must better with only six to twelve inches of additional clearance.

In moving water all that is required for a vehicle to be swept away is for the vehicle to become buoyant enough to allow the water’s force to push it sideways. This can occur even if the tires remain in contact with the pavement. The danger of being swept away includes attempts to walk or wade through flowing water. As little as six inches can sweep an adult off their feet and carry them downstream.

The solution is simple. Turn around, Don’t drown. Stay out of flooded areas. The water may be much deeper then it appears as the ground or roadway may have been washed away. Also respect “road closed” barriers posted to warn you of the danger.

Finally, know when you are at risk. Keep informed of the latest weather watches and warnings from the National Weather Service with the NOAA Weather and All Hazards Radio or through a local news source.

For more information, visit the Turn Around Don’t Drown website at: www.srh.weather.gov.