UPDATE: Flash flood warning previously issued will expire at 7:45 a.m., says the NWS
The warning was for Dallas County.
"At 6:35 a.m., Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms produced heavy rain across the warned area. Between 2 and 2.75 inches of rain have fallen. The heavy rain has ended, but flooding of low-lying and/or poor drainage areas may continue for a few hours until the water has had a chance to recede. Please continue to heed remaining road closures," says the NWS Fort Worth TX. "Flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets, and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas."
Locations impacted by the warning include Dallas, Garland, Irving, Grand Prairie, Mesquite, Richardson, Rowlett, Desoto, Cedar Hill, Wylie, Duncanville, Lancaster, Balch Springs, University Park, Sachse, Seagoville, Highland Park, Hutchins, Cockrell Hill and Sunnyvale. This includes the following highways: Interstate 35E between mile markers 416 and 436. Interstate 45 between mile markers 274 and 284. Interstate 20 between mile markers 454 and 485. Interstate 30 between mile markers 32 and 64.
The warning is in effect until 7:45 a.m.
Ways to stay safe during a flood according to the NWS
For either residents or campers of flood-prone, low-lying areas, take immediate action and seek higher ground. Follow evacuation instructions without delay. If time permits, lock your home upon departure and disconnect utilities and appliances. Avoid entering basements or rooms where electrical outlets or cords are submerged in water. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping sounds, evacuate the area immediately. Refrain from entering water that may have electricity in it and avoid walking through floodwaters. Even 6 inches of moving water can pose a serious risk of knocking you off your feet. If you find yourself trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and contact emergency services, and dial 911.
During periods of intense rainfall, the risk of flooding increases, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone areas. It is imperative to avoid driving through any water on the road, even if it seems shallow. According to the NWS, most cars can be swept away by just 12 inches of rushing water.
What to do in the rain on the road?
• Switch on headlights — Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.
• While on the road — Opt for the middle lanes and remain on higher ground. Rainwater tends to gather along the road edges.
• Keep clear of puddles — Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of control
• Give ample space to large vehicles — Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.
• Avoid flooded areas — When encountering a flooded road, do a U-turn and head back. The strong currents from flash floods can pull drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also negatively affect a vehicle's mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle’s weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is most commonly attributed to three factors:
1. Vehicle speed — When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.
2. Water depth — The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn’t matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.
3. Tire tread depth — Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here’s what to know:
• Ease off the accelerator — Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.
• Turn into the skid — Turning into the skid can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.
• Make sure the tires reconnect with the road — During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.
• Brake gently as needed — Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
