Guide
Flood Safety: Turn Around, Don't Drown
Flooding is one of the deadliest weather hazards in the United States, and many flood deaths happen in vehicles. The National Weather Service's message is simple: Turn Around, Don't Drown.
Why floodwater is so dangerous
- Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock an adult off their feet.
- 12 inches of moving water can carry away most cars.
- 2 feet of moving water can carry away SUVs and trucks.
You can't tell how deep the water is, or whether the road underneath has washed out.
What to do
- Never drive around barricades or into flooded roads. Find another route.
- Take extra care at night, when flooded roads are harder to see.
- During a Flash Flood Warning, move to higher ground right away. (For what a watch or a warning means, see Watch vs. warning.)
- Stay out of floodwater on foot. It can hide debris, downed power lines and contamination.
Related guides
Your World Weather Radar
The app shows NWS flood alerts as compact cards, along with rain arrival notifications for your place.
Sources
Sister app
Hunt smarter with Your World Hunt
- 🧭 Hunting map with GPS return and directions
- 💨 Wind, barometric pressure, moon and sun times, plus deer feeding times (Premium)
- 🗺️ Trip Planner with Ask Hawk and Top spots: public refuges and private lodges near you
- 🎧 Guides with a Listen button, in English and Spanish
Last reviewed November 2026. General information only; follow official guidance in an emergency.