When Water Turns Deadly: The Hidden Danger of Flash Floods

Flash floods are sneaky and deadly. They can happen fast, giving people little time to react. In Texas, a recent flash flood killed at least 27 people and left many more missing, including over 20 girls at a summer camp. The water rose quickly, trapping people in their homes and cars. Flash floods don't need much time to form. According to the National Weather Service, they can start within six hours of heavy rain, sometimes even sooner. This rapid rise catches people off guard, especially when traveling. In Kerr County, Texas, heavy rain caused the Guadalupe River to rise 26 feet in just 45 minutes, sweeping away homes and vehicles. Authorities did issue warnings. A flood watch was put in place on Thursday, but it was upgraded to a warning overnight. This warning affected 30, 000 people. However, not everyone was prepared. Kerr County didn't have a warning system in place, and officials admitted they didn't expect such severe flooding. Flash floods are a big problem in the U. S. Last year, 145 people died in flash floods. On average, floods claim 127 lives annually. Nearly half of these deaths involve vehicles. Many people don't realize how dangerous even a few inches of water can be. A car can be difficult to control in just 6 inches of water and can be swept away in as little as 18 inches. Flash floods can happen anywhere, not just in rural areas. They can occur in cities too. Even if it's not raining where you are, a flash flood can still happen if a nearby area gets heavy rain. Hurricanes, tropical storms, and even dam failures can cause flash flooding. It's important to stay informed and be prepared. Know your surroundings and have a plan in case of a flash flood. Remember, flash floods can be deadly, but being aware and taking precautions can save lives.