Never Trust the Depth of Floodwater
Original preparedness explainer · Reviewed as a draft October 29, 2026 · General U.S. guidance
Floodwater can cover missing pavement, moving water or hidden hazards. A familiar road can become unsafe within minutes.
Do not drive or walk into flooded roadways. Turn around and seek another route; follow official road closures and emergency orders.
Teach children that drainage ditches and swollen streams are not places to explore, even after rain stops.
Follow local warnings and evacuation instructions. Never drive or walk into floodwater; it can hide currents, debris and damaged road surfaces.
Put this into action
Choose one manageable improvement today. Confirm current warnings and local instructions with your city/county emergency management agency and the National Weather Service.