INDIANAPOLIS -- After days of heavy rainfall across much of central Indiana, many areas are experiencing flooding on roadways and parking lots.
With flood watches and warnings in effect through Friday, you'll want to pay attention when traveling through places that are prone to standing water.
We've tracked down some of the most common areas across central Indiana where you might come across flooded roadways.
You can check them out on the map below: (We'll add more to map as we get them)
Flooding is the most common and widespread of all weather-related natural disasters, according to the National Weather Service, and flash flooding is one of the most common.
A flash flood is caused by heavy rainfall over a short period of time - and it only takes a few inches of rain to cause serious flood danger.
If you encounter a flooded roadway while driving, you should always avoid the area and find an alternate route. No matter how deep the water looks, it can be dangerous.
NWA | Turn Around Don't Drown
According to the National Weather Service, more deaths occur due to flooding each year than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard. Urban areas are at the most risk of flash flooding because of concrete and asphalt surfaces that don't allow the water to penetrate into the soil easily.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that over half of all flood-related deaths happen when a vehicle is driven into dangerous flood waters.
It only takes 6 inches of fast-moving water to knock over an adult, and 12 inches of rushing water can carry away a small car.
It is never safe to drive or walk into flood waters.
The National Weather Service says 75 percent of all Presidential disaster declarations are associated with flooding.
The most recent flood disaster in Indiana happened in June 2008. The flood water kept the city of Columbus completely isolated for almost a day and affected over 25,000 people. Four people died. The flooding caused over $1 billion in damages and is considered one of Indiana's largest agricultural disasters.
NWA | Indiana Flooding History
The National Weather Service officers the following tips to make sure you're prepared in case of a flooding situation:
- Create a communications plan
- Assemble an emergency kit
- Know your risk
- Sign up for notifications
- Prepare your home
- Prepare your family/pets
- Charge your essential electronics
