Tips on What to Do If You're Driving and Encounter a Flash Flood

Flash floods are among the most dangerous natural hazards on the road, and you never know when it will strike. A calm drizzle or rain can quickly change into a life-threatening situation, especially in low lying areas or new areas for you. People often underestimate the power of rushing water, DON'T BE ONE OF THEM.

IF you're behind the wheel during these moments (heavy rain or a flood warning), having the knowledge on what to do can make a difference. Here are life-saving tips to follow if you ever encounter a flash flood while driving. These aren’t just best practices—they could be the difference between life and death.

1. Turn Around, Don’t Drown

This simple phrase is more than just a slogan—it’s a vital safety rule. If you come across a flooded road, do not attempt to drive through it. Water depth may look shallow, but it's often deeper than it appears, and just six inches of moving water can knock you off balance or sweep a car off the road. Roadways may have been washed away underneath, or hidden debris could puncture tires or damage your vehicle’s undercarriage.

What to do:
Find an alternate route. If there is no safe detour, turn around and wait for the water to subside, or if possible, reschedule. It’s always better to be late or reschedule than never arrive.

2. Know When to Abandon Your Vehicle

There is a chance that you might think that it safe to stay in your car, giving you better protection. But in a Flash Flood, this is a hidden AND DEADLY trap. The moment you see water begin to rise around your car, seep inside the car, or get stuck in deep water, you need to abandon the vehicle. YOUR LIFE IS NOT WORTH THE VEHICLE.

When to get out:

If water is rising rapidly inside the vehicle.
If the engine stalls and you cannot restart it.
If the vehicle is being pushed or lifted by moving water.

How to escape:

Unbuckle your seatbelt and have passengers do the same.
If the windows still work, roll them down immediately. Power windows may stop working as water enters the electrical system.
If the windows won’t open, use a window-breaking tool to break a side window (avoid the windshield—it’s reinforced and harder to shatter).
Climb out quickly and move to the roof, then to higher ground if possible.

Never wait for help if the car is filling with water—act fast, and prioritize your safety.

3. Avoid Low Spots and Underpasses

During a flash flood, water naturally flows into low-lying areas, which can become dangerous traps for drivers. Avoid dips, canyons, viaducts, and underpasses during heavy rain. These areas flood quickly and can leave you stranded—or worse. When possible, stay on higher ground and stick to major roads or highways that are less prone to sudden flooding.

Bridges can be structurally compromised by rushing water or debris. The support structure may weaken without visible damage.
Underpasses and dips in the road can fill with water quickly, turning into deep pools that trap vehicles.
Storm drains and culverts may overflow or create suction zones that can pull in cars or pedestrians.

What to do:

Avoid driving across bridges that are under water or appear unstable.
Steer clear of dips or tunnels with even minor flooding.
Do not park or rest near drainage ditches, streams, or other low-lying areas during heavy rain.

4. Stay Alert and Stay Informed

Most flash flood incidents happen because people are not updated on the local weather report. There is no guarantee that there won't be a flash flood in your area just because it's not raining, because they may originate from a higher area.

Before you drive:

Check the local weather forecast.
Sign up for weather alerts through your phone or radio.
Be aware of flood-prone areas on your route (low-lying roads, underpasses, near rivers or creeks).

During your trip:

Listen to the Weather Radio or local news updates.
Don’t assume a clear sky means you’re safe—conditions can change rapidly.

If a flash flood watch or warning is in effect, consider cancelling or rescheduling your trip. Being proactive is the best form of protection.

5. Stay Calm and Think Clearly

In a flash flood situation, panic can cloud your judgment. But calm, fast decision-making is essential.

If you're caught in a flooded area:

Don't speed up. Driving faster into floodwater increases your risk of hydroplaning or losing control.
Avoid sudden braking or turning. Move slowly and deliberately if driving is still possible.
Look for landmarks or elevated areas. Can you pull into a driveway, side street, or higher ground?

If water is rising and your car becomes unstable:

Keep your headlights on.
Honk your horn or use your emergency lights to signal for help if needed.
Remember your exit plan: seatbelt off, window open, out and up.

Practicing mental rehearsal of how you'd escape a sinking vehicle can help you stay focused and act quickly under pressure.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Underestimate the Power of Water

Flash floods don’t wait for you to be ready. They are swift, severe, and potentially fatal—especially for drivers who aren’t prepared or underestimate the danger.

The most important takeaway? No trip is worth your life. If there’s even a chance of encountering floodwaters, reroute, wait it out, or stay home. It’s always better to arrive late—or not at all—than to never arrive.