Driving in Floods

When a large amount of rain falls over a short period of time, rivers, ditches, sewers and lakes can soon overflow into low-lying or poorly drained areas. With severe weather and floods seemingly on the increase, it's essential that you know what to do if you caught in such conditions:

• If floods are forecast, avoid going out on the road unless absolutely necessary. If you do need to travel, make sure that you take food, a flask of hot drink and some spare dry clothing, along with a fully charged mobile phone if you have one.
• If the flood appears too deep or you are unsure of the depth, do not attempt to cross it. A vehicle will begin to float in a depth of less than 60 cm (2 feet) - this is particularly hazardous if you are driving through fast-moving water, as your car may be swept away.
• In general, you should only attempt to cross a flood if the water level is less than 30 cm (1 foot); this is about up to the centre of your wheels. However, your car may be damaged in just a few inches of water; for example:
  • Serious engine damage can occur if water is sucked up into the engine air intake system. Not only will this cause your engine to stall, but it can cause such severe damage that you will need to have the engine stripped down in order to get it going again.
  • The catalytic converter fitted in the exhaust system of modern vehicles works at high temperatures and may crack if it comes into contact with very cold water. It is usually very expensive to replace.
• When entering a flood, make sure that you are the only vehicle attempting to negotiate the water at that time. Wait for other vehicles to clear the flood before you start to drive through.
• Drive through the water slowly in first gear (L or 1 in an automatic). You should drive slowly enough so that you don't create a bow wave, which could swamp your exhaust and cause the engine to stall. Keep the engine speed high by slipping the clutch and revving the engine; this will help to keep the exhaust clear and prevent you from stalling.
• Do not change gear; this may water to be sucked back through the exhaust, damaging your engine.
• Try to drive in the highest section of the road if possible, and avoid the deepest water (this is usually by the kerb).
• After driving through a flooded section of road, you MUST test your brakes. Touch the brake pedal very lightly to dry them off and do not drive on at your usual speed until you are sure that the brakes are fine.
• If water has seeped into the interior of your car (the carpets will be wet), then there is a risk that an electrical short circuit could cause further damage to your vehicle. If your car is fitted with airbags, then these may also be deployed accidentally if there is water in the electrical system. Have your car professionally examined before driving away.

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