National Weather Service is observing Severe Weather Awareness Week this week

The National Weather Service is observing Severe Weather Awareness week this week, with a different topic of attention each weekday.

Monday's focus is on flash flooding.  Each year more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm-related hazard.  Last year there were more than 140 deaths due to flooding.

The National Weather Service is passing along several tips about your response to the potential of flash flooding:

• Do not camp or park your car along streams, particularly during threatening conditions.
• Get to higher ground if flooding does occur.
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast.
• Do not attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
• Do not allow children to play near high water
• Be especially cautious at night, when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
  

Cedar Rapids during the 2008 flooding