August 1, 2019
Due to recent rain, and in anticipation of additional wet weather forecasted for tonight and tomorrow, the City of Lawrence would like to remind residents of important safety tips in the event of flash flooding.
When roads become flooded and impassable, City crews will work as quickly as possible to barricade streets and direct detours around the flooded area. For safety, do not drive around street barricades. In the event a street begins to flood before city crews can erect barricades, do not drive through the flooded area. Drivers should never attempt to drive through an area that has standing water.
The most important thing to remember if you encounter a flash flooding situation is: Turn around, don’t drown! It only takes six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet, and water only 18 inches deep can float away most automobiles. Additional safety tips:
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Stay away from flood-prone areas, including dips, low spots, valleys, ditches, washes, etc.
- Avoid flooded areas or those with rapid water flow. Do not attempt to cross a flowing stream. It takes only six inches of fast flowing water to sweep you off your feet.
- Avoid contact with any floodwater in low-lying flooded areas due to the potential of localized contamination. People should also ensure that their children and pets do not come into contact with floodwaters.
- Don’t allow children to play near high water, storm drains or ditches. Hidden dangers could lie beneath the water.
- Flooded roads could have significant damage hidden by floodwaters. NEVER drive through floodwaters or on flooded roads. Water only 18 inches deep can float away most automobiles.
- Do not camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes, particularly when threatening conditions exist.
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
It is never safe to drive or walk through flood waters. Any time you come to a flooded road, walkway, or path, follow this simple rule: Turn around, don’t drown!
Media contact: Porter Arneill, Director of Communications and Creative Resources, parneill@lawrenceks.org, (785) 832-3402