x
Breaking News
More () »

Driving alert: Flooded roads can be deadly

Driving through standing water can suddenly become deadly. If you don't know how deep it is, turn around.

SEATTLE — Severe weather can cause urban flooding and standing water. National Weather Service officials ask drivers to never drive in flooded areas.

Six inches of fast-moving water can knock over an adult, 12 inches can carry away a small car, and 18-24 inches can carry away large SUVs, vans, and trucks, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

NWS and NOAA released a public service announcement called “Turn Around Don’t Drown.”

The video below shows the dangers of driving through standing water.

“More than half of the deaths from flooding each year occur in vehicles,” according to NWS.

RELATED: What does cresting mean? Flooding terminology explained

Before You Leave, Check This Out