As Californians, we cherish our cars almost as much as we adore the golden sun that graces our state. However, navigating our beloved vehicles through the rain is a skill many of us have not had much practice with in recent years. Currently, California is being pummeled by rain, fierce winds, and flooding, causing widespread chaos and devastation. The prolonged drought has left certain regions of the state particularly vulnerable to the impact of heavy rainfall, resulting in at least 16 tragic fatalities from recent storms and floods.
Governor Gavin Newsom expressed his grave concerns during a news conference over the weekend, highlighting the alarming rise in fatalities caused by the recent floods. He emphasized that these floods have proven to be deadlier than even the devastating wildfires that have plagued California in recent years, underscoring the urgent need for caution and vigilance during this treacherous weather.
In a harrowing incident in San Luis Obispo County on a Monday morning, a woman found herself in a life-threatening situation as she attempted to cross a flooded roadway with her 5-year-old son in the car. As the car began to be swept away by the powerful currents, both the mother and child managed to escape the vehicle. Fortunately, nearby property owners came to the mother’s rescue, but tragically, the rising water levels forced authorities to halt the search for the young boy, illustrating the perilous consequences of underestimating the force of nature.
Meanwhile, in Santa Barbara County on the same day, emergency responders were faced with multiple distress calls as several individuals had to be rescued from vehicles submerged in floodwaters. The situation was dire, with mass evacuations being ordered in some areas to ensure the safety of residents amidst the relentless onslaught of rain and flooding.
As we navigate these hazardous conditions, the paramount concern is always safety. The most effective way to protect yourself and others on the road during inclement weather is to stay home if possible. Weather reports indicate that the rain is expected to subside by Tuesday evening, so if your journey can be delayed, it is advisable to wait it out.
However, if venturing out on the wet roads is unavoidable, here are some essential tips to ensure a safe driving experience in the rain:
Turn Around, Don’t Drown
One of the most critical pieces of advice when faced with flooded streets is to avoid entering them at all costs. Even a small amount of water, as shallow as 6 inches, can stall cars or knock adults off their feet. With just 2 feet of water, a vehicle, including SUVs and trucks, can be swept off the road. Additionally, the water obscures the road conditions, posing a significant danger to drivers. It is imperative to heed all road closure notifications and follow instructions from emergency responders. Bryan La Sota, a coordinator for the L.A. County Emergency Management Department, emphasizes the importance of the saying “Turn around, don’t drown” as a reminder of the risks associated with driving into flooded areas.
Other Safety Tips
– Ensure your headlights are on when your windshield wipers are in use, as it is mandatory by law.
– Drive at a reduced speed, allowing extra time to reach your destination and exercising caution on wet roads. Avoid tailgating and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles to allow for longer stopping distances.
– Regularly check your tires to ensure they are properly inflated and have adequate tread to navigate the slick surfaces safely.
By adhering to these safety precautions and exercising vigilance on the rain-soaked roads, we can mitigate risks and protect ourselves and others from the perils of driving in hazardous weather conditions. Let’s all do our part to stay safe and ensure a smooth journey, even when nature throws its toughest challenges our way.
