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Turn Around Don't Drown

Last updated on Wednesday, April 11, 2018

(UNDATED) - Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that over half of all flood-related drownings occur when a vehicle is driven into hazardous flood water.

This was the scene in Northwest Monroe County Friday morning. According to Indiana State Sgt. Curt Durnil, the driver escaped, but had to be checked for hypothermia.

Troopers emergency crews arrivals were extended due to other areas of high water that kept them from a quick response.

"People underestimate the force and power of water," Lawrence County Sheriff Mike Branham says. "Many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream."

The next highest percentage of flood-related deaths is due to walking into or near flood waters.

"Of these drownings, many are preventable, but too many people continue to drive around the barriers that warn you the road is flooded" Sheriff Branham adds.

A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles.

"It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters," Sgt. Durnil added.

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