There are lots of myths out there about what’s ok during a flood, and sometimes simply uninformed decisions. That’s why the Red Cross works to share information and help ensure people are prepared for disasters of all kinds.
Even just two feet of water can float most vehicles and, if the water is moving quickly, vehicles can be swept away. Not recommended:
- Hurricane Isaac 2012
September 1, 2012. Helena, Mississippi. Flooding in Helena, Mississippi, following Hurricane Isaac. Photo by Talia Frenkel/American Red Cross
You also shouldn’t walk through flood water. Just six inches of swiftly moving water can sweep you off your feet. If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Not recommended:
Many of the local merchants forced to close their establishments in downtown Nashville couldn’t wait for the flood waters to recede completely, opting instead to wade in the standing water to peek at the damages.
Photo Credit: Daniel Cima/American Red Cross
Flash floods also don’t just happen near bodies of water. It could creep to the front of your business:
Many of the local merchants forced to close their establishments in downtown Nashville couldn’t wait for the flood waters to recede completely, opting instead to wade in the standing water to peek at the damages.
Photo Credit: Daniel Cima/American Red Cross
Or in the middle of your town:
Red Cross disaster relief workers are responding to flooding in Duluth, MN, and surrounding areas.
Photo Credit: Judy Hanne-Gonzalez
This myth vs. fact graphic helps capture and correct popular misconceptions of safe procedures in a flood. These facts aren’t just trivia — they’re lifesavers.
Read more about the flood app and plenty of other flood tips on redcross.org.