PENNDOT WARNS MOTORISTS TO STEER CLEAR OF HIGH WATER IN WAKE OF FLOODING

ALLENTOWN, PA (March 1) – With heavy rains projected for the region today and tomorrow, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) warns motorists to take precautions driving during inclement weather, and not to attempt driving through high water. This rainfall may cause water to back up on area roadways.

The National Weather Service says conditions will be favorable for flooding caused by ice melting combined with heavy rains, and has issued a flood watch for the region for tonight and tomorrow.

PennDOT warns motorists not to drive across roads covered with water because the water may be deeper than it looks. Motorists who encounter water covered roads are encouraged to turn around and not put themselves at risk.

PennDOT offers the following tips for preparing your vehicle and driving in rainy conditions:

	DO NOT attempt to drive over a flooded road. Turn around and go another way (turn around, don’t drown!);
	DO NOT underestimate the destructive power of fast-moving water. Two feet of fast-moving flood water will float your car. Even slow moving water can sweep cars off a road or bridge;
	Slow down. Driving a little slower on wet surfaces is always a good idea;
	Try to stay at least two car lengths behind the car in front of you;
	Check your wiper blades – replace them if they feel “pitted” or rough to the touch. Ice or small pebbles on the windshield may have damaged them during the winter;
	Check your headlights – both low and high beams – before heading out to see if all of the bulbs are working;
	Use headlights and windshield defrosters to make sure you can see ahead and behind you as clearly as possible;
	As you travel, monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local radio broadcasts for the latest information;
	Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel. Have a small disaster supply kit in the trunk of your car;
	If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately.

Motorists are encouraged to report maintenance concerns to PennDOT by using its toll-free Roadway Maintenance Hotline at 1-800-FIX-ROAD (1-800-349-7623). The 1-800-FIX-ROAD number should not be used to report traffic crashes, disabled vehicles or other emergencies. Motorists should continue to call 9-1-1 to report those types of emergencies.