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Continued rainfall in the county has led to flooding in various areas. Individuals should exercise caution whether driving or inspecting property damage, to ensure the safety of themselves, loved ones, children, and pets amid the fast-moving waters.
The phrase "Turn Around. Don’t Drown." serves as an important warning to heed. Drivers are advised against bypassing road closure signs, as even minimal moving water on roadways can affect safety: six inches of flood water can cause loss of vehicle control, twelve inches can sweep a car off the road, and twenty-four inches can do the same to a truck or SUV. Estimating water levels on the roadways can be challenging and dangerous, as water from ditches, creeks, and culverts can accumulate more quickly than expected. Compliance with road safety signs is essential.
Flash flood safety remains a priority as rain continues to impact much of the county, filling roadside ditches and raising water levels in local creeks. The rainfall is forecasted to persist through Sunday, potentially bringing six to eight inches to the region. Low-lying areas that commonly experience flash floods, as well as regions unaccustomed to such flooding, face rising waters. Residents are advised to monitor water levels closely in areas such as low-lying yards, creeks, culverts, bridges, roadside ditches, and retention ponds.
In the event of rising water necessitating evacuation, individuals should call 911. Additionally, the following precautions are recommended: do not walk through floodwaters as even six inches of fast-moving water can overtake an adult; educate children on the dangers of playing in rising waters, steering clear of creeks, ponds, and culverts; ensure pets are leashed with a collar and ID tag; and prevent pets from drinking from rain puddles to avoid exposure to harmful bacteria and chemicals.
