Houston Floods: The Consequences of a Low Flood

HOUSTON — There’s a saying meteorologists often repeat during heavy rains: “Turn around, don’t drown,” and remembering that rule could save your life in a flash flood.

Floods are usually caused by slow-moving thunderstorms or storm systems that produce immense amounts of precipitation over a short period of time.

It’s surprising to learn that it only takes six inches of fast-moving water to sweep you away.

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In your vehicle, it only takes one foot of fast-moving water to lift and move your sedan. In a truck, it only takes 18 to 24 inches of fast-moving water to lift.

This amount of water can accumulate at an astonishing speed, some would say in a flash. You then find yourself in a flash flood emergency situation.

Always be aware of weather warnings regarding impending severe weather. For floods that may initially occur as a ‘watch’, this means that conditions are favourable to produce torrential rain within a short period of time. When flooding is already occurring and observed, a ‘warning’ will be issued. This is the time to take action and seek higher ground and avoid roads in areas that have been warned.