PennDOT warns motorists to steer clear of high water in wake of flooding

DUNMORE -With heavy rains, accumulating heavy wet snow and varying temperatures projected for the region through the weekend, the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has warned motorists to take precautions driving during inclement weather and not to attempt driving through high water. This rainfall and snow may cause water to back up on area roadways. 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. • 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. • If you are in your car and water begins to rise rapidly around you, abandon the vehicle immediately. • 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. • Keep your automobile fueled. If electric power is cut off, gasoline stations may not be able to pump fuel. • If you travel, monitor NOAA Weather Radio and local radio broadcasts for the latest information. 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.