A Flood of Concerns

6/24/2021 (Permalink)

We've all seen images of people walking through flood waters. Many times they have no choice as they're trying to escape to higher ground. Sometimes we see pictures of kids, even adults, playing in floodwaters. There is something tempting about playing in water in places it's usually never seen. No matter who you are, here are some reasons why you never want to walk or work (or play) in floodwaters:

Creature Features – some of your playmates may include poisonous snakes, insects, leeches, disease-carrying rodents and decaying animal carcasses. 

Shock Value – a live power line could give way (which is not unusual in disaster areas) and land in the water you're standing in. No description necessary.

Junk in the Funk – flood waters can carry and hide all sorts of debris that can harm you – broken glass, torn metal, splintered wood, etc.

The Force is Not With You – it only takes the force of 6" of rapidly moving floodwaters to knock you off of your feet and only 2' of it to carry away a vehicle.
Toilet Water – many floods can cause sewer overflows, resulting in dispersal of dangerous chemical waste and also the proliferation of harmful microbes. Unless you're the Ty-D-Bol man, stay out.

They Suck – when flood waters cover storm drains or sink holes, powerful whirlpools can form that may not be visible from above. They can pull you under and won't let you go.