Heavy Rain? . . . stay safe . . . Turn Around Don't Drown (TADD)

Local summer thunderstorms, as well as tropical systems can wreak havoc, especially when a large amount of rain falls in a short period of time. In the case of a flash flood the rain may not even fall in your local area, but upstream, resulting in cascading water heading in your direction.

In today's Message of the Day, we highlight the National Weather Service's campaign "Turn Around Don't Drown". It is meant to inform people of the hazards of walking or driving a vehicle trough flood waters. Knowing what to do ahead of time when a flooding situation arises can help save your life.

NOAA's site recommends several things when it comes to flooding:

• Monitor the NOAA Weather Radio, or your favorite news source for vital weather related information."
• If flooding occurs, get to higher ground. Get out of areas subject to flooding. This includes dips, low spots, canyons, washes etc.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around Don't Drown®
• Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Turn Around Don't Drown®"
• 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."

Please take a few moments to visit NOAA's informative site at: TURN AROUND DON'T DROWN.

Stay safe this summer!