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 Flash flood waters move at incredible speed, roll boulders, tear out trees, and destroy buildings,
roads, and bridges. Walls of water can reach 10 to 20 feet in height very quickly and without warning.
The moment a flash flood warning is issued for your area or when you first realize that a flash flood
is imminent, act quickly to save yourself. If advised to evacuate, do so immediately...you may have only
seconds.
Watch for signs of heavy rain upstream of your location or rising water. If you see
rising water or a flash flood warning is issued, go to higher ground immediately! Follow evacuation
instructions, but don't wait for them if you think you are in danger. Act quickly to save yourself--you
may have only seconds to escape danger.
Remember...
- Go to high ground immediately.
- Leave canyons, valleys, and other low-lying areas. Go to high ground immediately!
- Do not try to cross a flowing stream on foot. You can be pushed over by flowing water
only six inches deep!.
- Do not drive through flooded areas. Flood water can wash a vehicle from the roadway and the road under
the water may no longer be intact. If you are driving, watch for flooded bridges and low areas in the
road. NEVER drive through water if you don't know how deep it is. Your vehicle can be swept away
by flowing water only a foot or two deep. Be especially cautious at night when flood waters are
difficult to see.
- If your vehicle stalls, abandon it immediately and seek higher ground. Rising flood water may
engulf and sweep it away.
- Do not place your vehicle, camper, or tent along streams, creeks, or washes, particularly
during threatening weather. Do not place your vehicle, camper or tent in areas where your only exit crosses a stream. Choose campsites away from creeks and other low-lying areas.
- When water threatens your campsite, leave immediately. Do not attempt to save your camper,
tent, clothing, or other personal belongings.
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