Ketchum, Idaho

... Flash floods and turn around don't drown Campaign...

Turn around don't drown... tadd... is a National Weather Service Campaign to
warn people of The Hazards of walking or driving a vehicle through flooded
waters. Floods are the leading cause of weather related deaths in the U.S.
And half of these fatalities are vehicle-related. Many of these incidents
occur at low water crossings that are dry under normal conditions... but can
become hazardous during flash flood events. Flash flooding is the rapid
rise of water along a stream or low lying urban area. Rain combined with
rapid snow melt... heavy rains in steep mountainous areas... or heavy rains
falling on saturated soils or frozen ground can cause flash flooding in
our area. Flash floods can occur even during low snowpack years such as
this one.

The main reason for the high number of vehicle-related flood fatalities is
that people underestimate the force and power of moving water and attempt
to cross what may appear to be a shallow depth of water. As little as 6
inches of moving water can cause a small car to lose control or knock a
person off their feet. As little as 18 to 24 inches of moving water can
carry away most vehicles... including trucks and suvs.

One reason attempting to cross flooded areas is particularly hazardous is
that you cannot determine the depth of water or the condition of the
roadbed under the water. Floodwaters can wash away the roadbed... leaving an
impassable surface under the water that is not visible. Flash flood waters
often carry debris that is not visible at the surface... such as large
tree limbs... that can cause significant damage to life and property. The
dangers of crossing potentially flooded areas are greater at night when
visibility is even more limited.

Most vehicle-related flood fatalities and injuries could be prevented by
following these safety rules.

* When you encounter water flowing across a Road while in your vehicle... do
not attempt to cross it... remember to turn around don't drown.
* Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio... or your favorite news source... for
vital weather-related information.
* Do not Camp or park your vehicle along streams and washes... particularly
during threatening conditions.
* Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood
dangers.
* Roadbeds may be washed out under floodwaters. Never drive through
flooded roadways or drive around Road barriers.

For more information on the National Weather Service tadd program visit
http://www.Weather.Gov/os/water/tadd/