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Flooding concerns for drivers

Posted at 1:27 PM, Apr 30, 2014
and last updated 2014-04-30 13:28:50-04

RICHMOND, Va (WTVR) -- Streets lined with puddles, dark clouds and heavy fog were all indicators of Mother Nature's stop here in Central Virginia. And the rigors of Wednesday's weather may just be getting started.

Signs the storm could be gaining momentum could be seen all over town. At the Belmont Golf Course what appeared to be a creek, took on a new look following early morning rainfall; the look of a raging river.

"Other than heat related fatalities, more deaths occur because of flooding water than any other weather hazard," Tammy Gobert with Mid-Atlantic AAA said.

Just six inches of fast-moving water can knock a person down. When you add-on a few more inches, Gobert said drivers are essentially testing their luck if they attempt to drive across water-covered roads.

"A car can suddenly be swept away in a matter of 18, 24 inches of water," Gobert said. "Often times it's hard to see how much water really truly is on that roadway."

Driver Rachael Loving lives by the simple concept to avoid driving through water. Loving said she knew the potential danger of driving into water not only put the driver at risk, but rescuers as well.

"Just turn around go home," Loving said. "Nothing is that important for your life. I mean we have had these experiences here before; you know what can happen."

AAA added in addition to flooding, drivers should also be concerned with hydroplaning.

AAA offers additional advice when flooding is imminent:
• Put your family preparedness plan into action.
• Contact your family members and confirm plan of action and alternatives.
• Confirm your family emergency kit is complete and ready.
• Move emergency supply items and valuables to highest inside part of your residence.
• Secure your pets.
• Make sure you have an adequate water supply in case service is cutoff.
• If you have time, and can do so safely, move vehicles to higher ground.
• Your safest option is to stay put. However, if you must evacuate to a safe location or a shelter, take your emergency supply kit and tell your family check-in contact you're leaving.