COLUMBIA, MO (March 14, 2011) -

With the onset of spring there will likely be more instances of heavy rainfall events.  That rainfall can cause several problems for those on the road or living near flood-prone areas.  March 14-18, 2011 is “Flood Safety Awareness Week” and the Columbia/Boone County Office of Emergency Management (OEM) wants everyone to be aware of the dangers spring rains can bring.

“Heavy rainfall can cause all kinds of problems, especially if it falls in a short amount of time,” says OEM Director Zim Schwartze.  “In cities, heavy rain can cause street flooding when it falls faster than the streets can handle.  That can cause quick and dangerous street flooding for motorists to encounter, not to mention the dangers of hydroplaning.  There are low-water crossings all over Boone County which are susceptible to flooding.  It cannot be stressed enough that motorists who approach water covered roadways are urged to find another route of travel, and do not drive through it!”

A troubling trend in recent years has been the number of people who do not realize or simply ignore the dangers of low water crossings.  “Even small amount of water can sweep a vehicle off a low-water crossing, send it downstream and trap its occupants”, says Schwartze.  “There are drivers who take chances and attempt to navigate a low-water crossing rather than spend a little extra time and taking a longer route.  Doing that can produce deadly results.”

As roads in Columbia and Boone County are reported as being flooded and/or closed, they are placed on the website www.showmeboone.com/OEM/closures.htm.  OEM encourages local residents to periodically check this website for road closures.

Dangers during flash flooding are not just limited to those on the road.  People who live near a flood-prone stream or river are reminded to keep up to date on the latest weather information and keep an eye on rising water.  As more people take advantage of the warmer weather and begin camping near creeks and streams, OEM encourages campers to be prepared to evacuate quickly should rapidly-rising water threaten the campsite.

Statistics from the National Weather Service (NWS) indicate that 31 people have died in flood-related incidents in Missouri since 2000. 

The Office of Emergency Management has several materials available, on how to prepare for flooding and other natural disasters.  Those materials can be obtained by calling the office at (573) 874-7400, or by logging onto our website, www.showmeboone.com/OEM/.


Flash Flood Safety:

       A Flash Flood or Flood Watch means that flash flooding or flooding is possible within the designated area.
       Flash Flood or Flood Warning means that flash flooding or flooding has been reported or is imminent. Take necessary precautions at once!
       Urban and Small Stream Flood Advisory means that flooding of small streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and urban storm drains is occurring or is about to occur.

When a Flash Flood Warning is Issued:

• Get out of areas prone to flooding. This includes areas near rivers and streams, low spots, and low-water crossings.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams.
• Be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters. Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants and sweep them away.
• Do not camp or park your vehicle along areas prone to flooding, particularly during threatening conditions.

When a Flood Warning is issued:

• Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water.
• Continue to monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local media for information.
• Be alert for rising waters and water over roads.

Drive with extreme caution if roads are even just wet or it is raining. You can lose control of your vehicle if hydroplaning occurs, which is when a layer of water build up between your tires and the road, causing there to be no direct contact between your vehicle and the road.