02/14/11 Marshall County Emergency Management Director, Clyde Avery said, “With the temperatures warming up beginning on Sunday and into next week, we have the potential for significant snow melting which could lead to some flooding issues.”
With temperatures forecasted to be above freezing and even into the upper 40’s later next week, we unfortunately have to begin to think about potential flooding issues due to melting snow.
With the ground still frozen, the water will be especially problematic for people who live in low lying areas or who have had past flooding problems.
If you live in area that has had issues, we would encourage you to begin taking the necessary steps to protect your property.
Ponding or moving water on roads can be especially dangerous. A few inches of water across a road can cause a 3,000 pound vehicle to lose contact with the road surface and may lead to a serious accident.
Flowing water can wash out road beds making it difficult to judge the actual depth of the water on the road. Drivers should be especially cautious when driving at night since it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
Most flood related injuries and deaths can be prevented by following a few simple tips:
- During potential flooding, monitor the weather conditions and listen for potential warnings.
- If flooding occurs, get to higher ground
- Report flooded roads to the Marshall County Sheriff’s Department or Marshall County Highway Department.
- Never drive through flooded roadways (Remember: Turn Around Don’t Drown)
- Never drive around the barriers warning that a road is flooded
- Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
For additional information contact the Marshall County Emergency Management Agency at 936-3740.
