We're thinking about everyone impacted by #HurricaneHarvey. Here's what to do if your car gets stuck in a flood: https://t.co/rwjgT6JEUu pic.twitter.com/qjcpdW5AZA
— Cars.com (@carsdotcom) August 28, 2017
Hurricane Harvey has been slamming the Gulf Coast with relentless flooding for the past week. While Florida, for once, hasn't been at the center of this disaster, it's a good time to make sure we remember what to do for the next tropical storm to hit the Sebring area.
If you are driving and notice a road has flooded, turn around and take an alternate route. Even if you think you can ford it, it may be deep enough for your Kia to lose steering, and the water may be rising rapidly.
If your car becomes stuck due to deep water, abandon it and head for high ground as soon as possible. Flash flooding can quickly submerge your vehicle, so don't wait for things to get worse.
Unlock doors and roll down your windows while the vehicle's electronics are still working.
If the water level is low enough, you should be able to open the doors to escape. Once it is more than about waist-deep, however, the pressure differential will make it impossible to force open. Escape through an open window, instead.
Don't try to stay with your vehicle, it will not protect you in a serious flood. Escape to high ground.