[Press Release] : Heavy Rain is Possible in Boone County Caution Advised for Residents

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
 
Contact: Zim Schwartze, OEM Director or Scott Smith, Public Information
Officer, 573-874-7400
 

Heavy Rain is Possible in Boone County Caution Advised for Residents 
 
COLUMBIA, MO (December 23, 2009) - With the possibility of more rain as
we get closer to Christmas, the Columbia/Boone County Office of
Emergency Management (OEM) advises motorists to be cautious and aware of
the dangers at low-water crossings. Several crossings have the potential
to flood, creating a hazard for those who might attempt to cross. There
also exists a threat for flooding due to rain falling on already
saturated ground. 
 
“We want to remind everyone to avoid low-water crossings for the
remainder of this week,” says OEM Director Zim Schwartze. “We’ve seen a
number of incidents in the past in which drivers had to be rescued after
attempting to cross areas where water covered the road. We also ask
motorists to be cautious because of hydroplaning dangers which exist on
wet roads.” 
 
 
 
Columbia and Boone County are under a Flash Flood Watch through
Thursday evening. The National Weather Service predicts a total rainfall
of two to four inches before the rain is over late Thursday night. 
 
Schwartze also advises those with travel plans this weekend to keep
updated on weather conditions. Heavy rain is predicted for southern
Missouri, while portions of northern Missouri could get significant
snowfall. You can stay updated on the latest road conditions by calling
the Missouri Highway Patrol’s Road Condition Hotline at (800) 222-6400
or by following the Winter Weather link at gocolumbiamo.com/EM.
 
Flash Flood Safety 
 

When Rising Water Threatens:
 

Monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local media for the latest weather
information. 
 

Be alert for rising waters and water over roads.
 

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

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 quickly submerge the vehicle. 
 
 
 

-30-
 

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