Turn Around, Don’t Drown Otsego County, New York

Tropical Storm Debby is on the move, and could possibly impact Otsego County and Central New York as a whole. According to WBNG meteorologist Howard Manges. Last night's National Hurricane Center's 11pm update, the storm's track now includes our general area. Heavy rains are expected from this slow moving storm.

During my years living in South Carolina's Lowcountry, I experienced tropical weather events and took the concept of "Turn Around, Don't Drown" seriously. As we're seeing, the Lowcountry floods at the drop of a hat due to its geographic location, at or below sea level. As we see floods in our area, it's a good time for a safety review.

"Turn Around, Don't Drown" is a public safety campaign initiated by the National Weather Service (NWS) to raise awareness about the dangers of driving through flooded roads. The slogan emphasizes the critical importance of avoiding floodwaters, which can be deceptively dangerous. Flooding is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the United States, and many fatalities occur when drivers attempt to navigate through flooded areas.

Floodwaters can be much deeper than they appear and can hide numerous hazards such as washed-out roads, debris, or strong currents. Just six inches of moving water can knock over an adult, while one to two feet can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and trucks. This illustrates how even seemingly shallow water can pose significant risks.

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The campaign's core message is to always prioritize safety by turning around when encountering a flooded road. It's better to take a longer route or delay your trip than to risk driving through water of unknown depth and force. In addition to personal safety, avoiding flooded areas helps prevent the need for emergency rescues, which can endanger both the stranded individuals and the first responders.

Communities can support this initiative by educating residents about the dangers of flooding and ensuring that roads prone to flooding are clearly marked with warning signs. Public awareness and adherence to the "Turn Around, Don't Drown" mantra can save lives, reduce injuries, and minimize the economic impacts associated with flood-related accidents. Remember, no destination is worth the risk of crossing a flooded road.