[Press Release] : Potential exists for weekend flooding; residents reminded of flood dangers

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

Contact: James P. Mc Nabb - (573) -874-7400

Potential exists for weekend flooding; residents reminded of flood
dangers

COLUMBIA, MO (April 29, 2009) - The combination of heavy rain earlier
this week and the potential for more rain this afternoon and tonight has
prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a flash flood watch
from this evening through Thursday morning for much of mid-Missouri,
including Columbia and Boone County. The Columbia/Boone County Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) warns residents of potential flooding dangers
caused by the additional rain. 

“More rain over the next 24 hours could bring a number of flooding
problems in the county,” says OEM Director James McNabb. “Boone
County Public Works has already closed one low-water crossing due to
high water, and it’s very possible that more low-water crossings could
pose a danger to drivers tonight and Thursday.” 

On average, more people are killed by flooding than by tornadoes,
lightning and hurricanes. Most of these deaths occur at night, when it
is more difficult to recognize the dangers, and when people are trapped
in vehicles. Motorists are reminded to steer clear of low-water
crossings which are covered in water. 

Columbia/Boone County
Office of Emergency Management
P. O. Box 6015
17 N. 7th Street, Suite A
Columbia, MO 65205 
Flash Flood Safety 

A flash flood or flood watch means that flash flooding or flooding is
possible within the designated area. 

Flash flood or flood warning means that flash flooding or flooding has
been reported or is imminent. Take necessary precautions at once! 

Urban and small stream flood advisory means that flooding of small
streams, streets, and low-lying areas, such as railroad underpasses and
urban storm drains is occurring or is about to occur. 

When a flash flood warning is issued:

●	Get out of areas prone to flooding. This includes areas near
rivers and streams, low spots, and low-water crossings. 

●	If you approach a roadway that is flooded, TURN AROUND - DON'T
DROWN. 

●	Be aware that the road bed may not be intact under flood waters.
Turn around and go another way. NEVER drive through flooded roadways. 

●	Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize
flood dangers. 

●	If the vehicle stalls, leave it immediately and seek higher
ground. Rapidly rising water may engulf the vehicle and its occupants
and sweep them away. 

●	Do not camp or park your vehicle along areas prone to flooding,
particularly during threatening conditions. 

When a flood warning is issued:

●	Move to a safe area before access is cut off by flood water. 

●	Continue to monitor NOAA Weather Radio, and local media for
information. 

●	Be alert for rising waters and water over roads.
Drive with extreme caution if roads are even just wet or it is raining.
You can lose control of your vehicle if hydroplaning occurs, which is
when a layer of water build up between your tires and the road, causing
there to be no direct contact between your vehicle and the road. 

- 30 -
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