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Singapore experienced flash flooding in three locations on Monday (November 2). A submerged car was seen. ST answers questions about what to do if your car is near a flash flood.
Q. How do I know if I can drive through a flash flood?
It largely depends on the car’s ground clearance, said The Straits Times senior transportation correspondent Christopher Tan.
Generally, it is not safe to drive through a flood. A typical family car has a ground clearance of 120-140mm, which is not very high.
But if necessary, the depth of the water should be measured by looking at the curbs of the road. If the curbs are still visible or just below the water level, it is relatively safe to continue.
If the curb is not visible, it is riskier to continue unless you are in a tall vehicle such as an SUV or truck. Otherwise, you may end up driving into a drain, gutter, or onto a ledge.
Q. What should I do when driving on a submerged road?
Drive very slowly and steadily in low gear to keep your engine speed high and constant until your car is out of the water, suggests the Automobile Association of Singapore (AAS).
This prevents water from entering the exhaust pipe, which will damage electronic components. Driving slowly also reduces the risk of losing control of the steering.
To avoid stopping in the middle of flooding, allow oncoming traffic and vehicles going in the same direction to pass.
Do not lift your foot or apply the brakes midway to minimize turbulence and backflow that can be caused by water intake.
After cleaning the flooded area, apply the brakes gently for a few minutes to remove any moisture, which may have affected its performance.
Q. What should I do if my car stalls while driving through a flash flood?
Don’t try to restart it as that can damage the motor, the AAS said.
Make sure the hood of the car is closed because you may have a hard time restarting the engine.
Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers around you and call for help.
Q. Should I abandon my stopped car?
It’s important to leave the car and get to higher ground if the water level reaches the bottom edge of the car door, the AAS said.
Avoid waiting for the car to submerge as the doors may not open and you will be trapped inside.
Moving water at a depth of 15 cm can make it unstable for an adult to walk.
When getting out of the car, call for a tow truck to avoid causing road congestion.
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