Warning to drivers as storm looms

As Devon braces itself for the worst storm in two decades, the AA has issued advice to drivers who may encounter flooding.

Where the risk of flooding comes from rivers or the sea you're likely to get some advanced warning from the Environment Agency but surface water flooding resulting from heavy rain combined with drains that can't cope is much more difficult to predict.


The AA advises that whatever the cause, flood water presents a general hazard to health.
 Moving flood water in particular is powerful, relentless and extremely dangerous.

There can be significant risks from slip and trip hazards beneath the water as well as from diseases and other contaminants which will be in the water in both urban and rural environments.


Vehicles can quickly become unstable in moving water - 12 inches of water moving at only 6mph is enough to float the average family saloon.


If you fall over in 6 inches of water moving at only 6mph you are unlikely to be able to stand up again. 
Flood water, particularly sea water, can play havoc with vehicle electrics causing intermittent or erratic operation of lights and wipers for example.  

An AA spokesman said: "If flood water has reached floor height or got inside the vehicle it's best to telephone for help before attempting to recover it."