Watch Out for Flooding in Marion over Next Few Days

With the possiblity of heavy rain this week following a weekend filled with rain, the National Weather Service in the Quad Cities has declared a Flood Warning and Flash Flood Watch for much of Eastern Iowa, including Linn County.

There is some helpful information about flooding preparation at this government website, but this section on driving through rushing water will be particularly useful to heed for drivers the next few days:

The following are important points to remember when driving in flood conditions:

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• A foot of water will float many vehicles
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.
• Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
• Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
• Do not try to take short cuts. They may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.
• Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers