Once again the UK, and also Ireland, has been struck by major flooding as more than a months’ worth of rain fell in just 24 hours. It caught many people off guard, trapping them homes and cars, and killing at least two people.

This sort of flooding is particularly dangerous as the rivers, drains and sewers were not able to deal with that quantity of water in such a short space of time. Rising water levels like this can be extremely unexpected and very fast flowing – two people are already reported as missing or dead.

Dublin Flooding by Irish Weather Online

This video by Irish Weather Online shows just how badly it affected people just trying to get home from work. My favourite part is of the shopping centre.

Of course you should already be prepared for flooding by already having a 72hr survival kit in case you have to leave your home or enough emergency food and water storage if you can stay put.

What if you are caught in a flash flood?

If you are walking, cycling or taking public transport:

Δ	Stay out of areas subject to flooding. Dips, low spots, basements, tunnels or underground car parks etc. can become filled with water;
Δ	Move to high ground and stay there, even if it’s a 1st or 2nd floor and move away from dangerous floodwater. Don not get closer just to watch it rise in case you get trapped;
Δ	If you come upon a flowing stream where water is above your ankles, stop, turn around and go another way. Never try to walk, swim, or drive through flowing water.

If you are driving, you should:

Δ	Avoid already flooded areas and areas subject to sudden flooding.
Δ	Do not attempt to cross flowing streams or water covered roads. Ο  The depth of water is not always obvious and as little as six inches of water may cause you to lose control of your vehicle; Ο  The roadbed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped; Ο  Rapidly rising water may stall the engine, engulf the vehicle and its occupants, and sweep them away; Ο  Standing water may be electrically charged from underground or downed power lines; Ο  Two feet (0.6 meters) of water will carry away most vehicles, including 4x4s
Δ	Stay away from underpasses as they can rapidly fill with water, while the adjacent roadway remains clear.
Δ	Turn around and find another route if you come upon rapidly rising floodwater or road blocks.

Always think of your safety when dealing with flooding as there are so many hidden dangers lurking under the water, but if you are prepared you should be able to find somewhere safe to stay until the water level returns back to normal.

Remember, don’t delay, prepare today!