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On Sunday at 5:38 a.m. the NWS Fort Worth TX released a flood advisory in effect until 8 a.m. for Tarrant County.
The NWS informs, “Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected.”
“Water over roadways. Ponding of water in urban or other areas is occurring or is imminent,” states the NWS. “Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles.”
This advisory is in effect until 8 a.m.
Weather Watches and WarningsLive, real-time data from the National Weather Service showing official weather watches, warnings, and advisories. Tap or click a highlighted area for details.
Sources: NOAA, National Weather Service, NOAA GeoPlatform, and Esri.
Map by Steve Wilson swilson@star-telegram.comWays to stay safe during a flood according to the NWS
If you live in a flood-prone area or are camping in a low-lying area, get to higher ground immediately. If told to evacuate, do so immediately. Lock your home when you leave. If you have time, disconnect utilities and appliances. Don’t go into a basement, or any room, if water covers the electrical outlets or if cords are submerged. If you see sparks or hear buzzing, crackling, snapping, or popping noises, get out. Stay out of water that may have electricity in it. Don’t walk through flood waters. It only takes 6 inches of moving water to knock you off your feet. If you are trapped by moving water, move to the highest possible point and call 911 if possible.
When heavy rain occurs, there is a risk of flooding, particularly in low-lying and flood-prone regions. It is important to never attempt to drive through water on the road, regardless of how deep it appears. According to the NWS, as little as 12 inches of rushing water can sweep away most vehicles.
What to do in the rain on the road? Switch on headlights – Even during daylight hours, using headlights can enhance visibility and signal your presence to other drivers.While driving – Stick to the middle lanes and stay on elevated ground. Rainwater tends to accumulate at the road edges.Keep clear of puddles – Driving through puddles or low rainwater areas can cause vehicles to hydroplane or skid out of controlGive ample space to large vehicles – Trucks or buses can create a water spray that diminishes visibility.Steer clear of flooded areas – When coming to a flooded road, turn around and head back. Flash flooding currents are strong and can sweep drivers off roadways. Driving through deep water can also affect a vehicle’s mechanical and electrical systems.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning happens when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably on wet roads.
This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle’s weight can push water out of the way. The water pressure then causes the vehicle to rise and slide on a thin layer of water between the tires and the road, making the driver lose control. Hydroplaning is primarily caused by three factors:
Vehicle speed – When a vehicle’s speed increases, the tire-traction grip and ability to control the vehicle decreases. Drive at a reduced speed during wet weather.Water depth – The deeper the water, the sooner a vehicle loses traction on the road. It doesn’t matter how deep the water is, even a thin layer can lead to hydroplaning.Tire tread depth – Checking your tire tread before hitting the road is important, as low or no tread can lead to sliding.
In the event of your vehicle hydroplaning, here’s what to know:
Ease off the accelerator – Step off the gas to slow down the vehicle until the tires find traction.Turn into the skid – Turning into the skid can help the vehicle’s tires realign to regain control.Make sure the tires reconnect with the road – During the skid, wait until the tires reconnect with the road and then gently straighten the wheels to regain control.Brake gently as needed – Brake normally if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes and pump brakes gently if in an older vehicle.
Source: The National Weather Service
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This story was originally published October 4, 2026 at 5:42 AM.