Thunderstorms in the Mid-Mississippi Valley and Florida; Fire Weather Concerns in the Northern Plains

Isolated severe storms capable of hail and gusty winds are possible mainly this evening across portions of the mid-Mississippi Valley. Clusters of thunderstorms may produce isolated flash flooding in the Florida peninsula. Elevated fire weather risk is possible in the Northern Plains into western Minnesota. Read More >

Flood Safety Awareness Week is March 18th - 22nd

Today’s topic is "Turn Around Don’t Drown"

Did you know that more than half of all flood-related deaths are drownings that result from vehicles caught in flood waters and then swept downstream? Many of these drownings are preventable if people do not drive or walk through flooded roads, sidewalks, etc. People often underestimate the power of flowing water. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock an adult off their feet. Most vehicles begin to lose contact with the road in six inches of water. Vehicles, including pickups and SUVs, can be swept away in 18-24 inches of flowing water. When approaching a flooded roadway remember, Turn Around Don’t Drown!

Turn Around Don’t Drown (TADD) is a joint effort between the National Weather Service and the Federal Alliance for Safe Homes to increase awareness of the dangers of driving over flooded roads or walking in flooded areas. Too many people die due to misjudging the power of moving water or their ability to navigate flooded areas. Either way, many deaths could have been prevented by simply turning around. A cancelled or delayed trip is worth the time and effort.

Flood safety guidelines:

- Get to or stay on higher ground and avoid low spots in the road or otherwise.
- Turn around don’t drown. Cancel or delay a trip if it is over flooded roads.
- Road barricades and warning signage are there for your saftey, don't go around them.
- A flooded road may have hidden dangers, such as washed out roadbeds or underwater obstructions.
- Keep children away from flooded areas or areas of fast moving water (e.g. ditches).
- Don’t camp near a river or steam if there is a flash flood threat. Flooding can happen at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Flood Awareness Week: www.weather.gov/floodsafety/

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Thunderstorms in the Mid-Mississippi Valley and Florida; Fire Weather Concerns in the Northern Plains

Turn Around Don't Drown