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Weather Works: Can you drive safely through floodwaters in large or heavy vehicles?

Meteorologist Taylor Stephenson tackles the truth behind driving through floodwaters on this episode of Weather Myths.

MACON, Ga. — Flash flooding is the #1 weather-related killer in the United States. More than half of all flood deaths happen when people drive through flooded roadways and get stuck.

You might think that driving through flooded streets with heavy or large vehicles is safe, but unfortunately, that's not true.

Just 6" of water can sweep a human off their feet and can reach the undercarriage of an average car. One foot of rushing water will cause vehicles to float, and it takes about two feet of water to whisk away large or heavy vehicles.

There's also concern about what's in those floodwaters. Debris can be under the surface and strike you or your vehicle. Raw sewage or gasoline may also be in the watery mix.

If any of your property is damaged by floodwater, make sure to clean all salvageable items with water and bleach. If an object has too much water damage, just throw it out.

Anytime there are flash flood warnings in your area, stay weather aware, and seek higher ground.

If you have any questions on weather phenomena and how the weather works, just send us an email at news@13wmaz.com, leave a comment under the post of this story on our Facebook page, or text us at 478-752-1309.

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