Driving safety during road flooding

Authorities and safety experts have issued guidance regarding the risks of driving through flooded roads during heavy storms.

Initial warnings from Protección Civil highlight that water can hide sinkholes or uneven surfaces and that the lateral force of moving water can displace vehicles. They note that a critical safety threshold is reached when water covers approximately half the height of the wheels, at which point a vehicle may begin to float.

Subsequent safety recommendations advise drivers to ensure water does not exceed the center of the wheel hub and to use low gears while turning off air conditioning to prevent engine damage. Experts warn that attempting to restart a stalled vehicle in water can cause hydrostatic lock, destroying pistons and seizing the engine. Additionally, drivers are cautioned that insurance companies may deny claims if they determine a driver deliberately attempted to cross visibly impassable areas. In extreme cases, drivers are urged to prioritize personal safety by abandoning vehicles for higher ground.