High Water Text

You wouldn't drive into a tornado,…

Don't even think about driving into high water
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Do not walk, swim or drive through flood waters!

More people are killed by flash floods in the United States than by tornadoes or lightning strikes. During the storms of May 5, 1995, 16 of the 20 deaths occurred as a result of flooding.

And almost all of those deaths occurred because someone decided to drive into high water.

Water does not have to be deep to be dangerous:

Only six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet;

For each foot that water rises up the side of a car, the car weighs 1,500 pounds less. Only two feet of water will carry away most cars.

Floodwaters can wash away parts of the roadbed, leaving large pot holes that can strand your car and leave you trapped inside.

Tips to follow during a flash flood warning:

Plan ahead and take alternate routes to avoid flooded roadways.

If you come upon a flooded crossing, don't take the risk! Stop, turn around and go the other way.

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to judge the depth of floodwaters.

Remember, when you drive around a roadway barricade, you are not only risking your life, but you are also breaking the law. This violation is punishable by a fine of up to $500.

You can help prevent flooding

Do not dump grass clippings, yard waste, trash or anything else into storm drains. It's not just a bad idea, it's against the law and punishable by a fine of up to $2,000 per pay, per offense.

Silt from erosion clogs storm drains and fills creek beds. Prevent soil erosion by using retaining walls, landscaping and other barriers.

Grass clippings and leaves left in the street or dumped on a creek bank or in the watershed will wash into storm drains.

Any foreign object and wastes that enter a storm drain can prevent effective drainage, cause flooding and harm our water supply.

Don't dump it, Dallas! Protect your water

Report polluters who dump wastes into storm drains by calling (214) 670-5000. Storm Water Quality environmental inspectors will investigate your complaint and take appropriate action.

Report water polluters!

(214) 670-5000

City of Dallas Public Works & Transportation Dept.
Storm Water Quality Division
2721 Municipal Street, Room 12
Dallas, Texas 75215

Publication No. 95/96-31
4/96
Updated 1/99

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