Fire department must rescue driver on flooded road

On Christmas Eve, a 45-year-old woman found herself in a sticky situation. She had driven her car down a flooded road in the Dittersbach district of Frankenberg, Central Saxony. Unfortunate events led to her car becoming trapped in the water, and her engine reportedly took a hit. In the midst of the chaos, the local authorities managed traffic, and thankfully, the fire department swooped in to save the day. They managed to rescue the woman and her vehicle unscathed.

Safety Precautions During Floods

Floods pose a significant risk to drivers, and road rescues are a common occurrence for fire departments, especially during severe weather events. Climate change and increased precipitation have led to a rise in flood incidents. For instance, in England, fire and rescue services (FRSs) attended 17,978 flooding incidents in the year ending September 2024, representing a decrease of 3.7% compared to the previous year but an increase of 36% compared to five years prior[2]. Similarly, Cal Fire Butte County responded to 20 rescue missions on flooded roadways following a recent storm system, showing the necessity of swift water rescue teams[3].

To avoid the need for rescue and ensure safety during floods, drivers should:

1. Follow Road Closures: Listen to local authorities and heed their instructions. Driving through flooded roads can be extremely dangerous, even if the water appears shallow.
2. Turn Around, Don't Drown: If you encounter a flooded road, turn around and find an alternative route. Floodwater can stall your engine, making your vehicle undrivable.
3. Regularly Check Road Conditions: Keep updated on road conditions and weather forecasts to plan your route accordingly. Avoid problem areas during floods.
4. Exercise Caution: Be aware of hidden hazards like fast-moving water. Even if the water appears calm, it can be deceptively deep and powerful.
5. Stay Informed: Keep an eye on local news and emergency alerts for updates on flood conditions and road closures. This will help you make informed decisions about your travel plans.

By adhering to these safety measures, drivers can significantly reduce the risk of requiring a road rescue during floods.