Here’s What to Do When You’re Driving Through a Flash Flood

By
Noreen Shazreen
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It’s the monsoon season in Singapore—the perfect time to curl up with a hot Milo and kaya toast.

If you’ve been on TikTok lately, you might have seen Gen Zs poking fun at the weather, calling it “sweater weather”. These posts poke fun at those who always said they wanted to wear layered clothing, but couldn’t due to Singapore’s humid weather.

@xinderellahit’s practically winter in Singapore.. no more excuses♬ original sound – xinhui


But now really is the time to pull out those cosy sweaters and jackets.

While the chilly weather may allow for fun fashion experiments, it’s less enjoyable for drivers… especially with the recent flash floods.

If you have been sleeping in and enjoying the cooling weather, you might have missed the news: the non-stop rain in Singapore has caused flash floods.

Last week, it was reported that a 60m stretch of Jalan Seaview, near East Coast Beach, was submerged under 50m of water, prompting warnings from the national water agency, PUB.

Residents described this as the “worst flooding in years”.

You can watch this video to know more about it:

And there’ll be another monsoon surge this weekend, which means there will be non-stop rain again.

Thankfully, Goody Feed has compiled a guide on what to do when driving through a flash flood. With heavy rain upon us once again, here’s your ultimate survival guide.

Check the News for Flood Updates

Before hitting the road, it’s always wise to do some preparation.

Start by checking online news updates and your weather app to see if the conditions are clear or if heavy rain is expected. If it’s pouring, stay informed by monitoring the latest updates through the news, radio, or PUB’s website.

Staying ahead with real-time information can help you avoid dangerous flooded areas and plan a safer route.

Know the Depth of the Water Before Crossing a Flooded Area

According to Motorist Singapore, the first step is to assess the water level before attempting to drive through a flooded road.

If you’re driving an SUV or a vehicle with higher ground clearance, you may be able to navigate the water safely.

However, if you have a “low” car or have lowered your suspension, consider taking an alternative route.

This is to prevent any damages as floodwater could seep through improperly sealed door sills, damaging your car’s interior and potentially leaving you with a repair bill for electronics or engine components.

It is also advised to avoid driving through standing water deeper than 15cm.

If it’s moving water, it should be no more than 10cm deep.

In short: if it’s ankle-deep, avoid it. At this depth, water can easily enter your engine, stalling the car and causing serious damage.

Slow and Steady Wins the Race

If you absolutely must drive through water, do it slowly.

While you are driving, do keep in mind to avoid lifting your foot off the accelerator or braking midway. Maintaining a steady pace minimises turbulence and backflow, reducing the risk of water entering your engine.

Motorist Singapore recommends that after clearing the flooded area, gently apply the brakes for a minute or two to expel moisture.

You should never speed through floodwater, as this creates a bow wave that could splash onto other vehicles and pedestrians. Not only is this inconsiderate, but it could also lead to water entering your engine, resulting in expensive repairs.

The general rule is to drive no faster than your bow wave. If you see oncoming traffic, let them pass first to avoid colliding bow waves.

Driving slowly also helps prevent aquaplaning.

Aqua… what?

Aquaplaning occurs when a layer of water builds up between your tyres and the road surface, causing a loss of traction.

Heavy rain reduces visibility and increases braking distances, making it essential to reduce speed. Japanese tyre manufacturer Bridgestone advises lowering your speed by 10 km/h for each increase in windshield wiper speed.

Did you know that as little as an egg cup’s worth of water in your engine intake can stall your car and cause thousands of pounds in damage?

So, if you encounter a flood, the best advice is to avoid it and find an alternative route.

Yes, safety should always be of your utmost importance and you should find another route even if it means you might be late for work or your dinner plans.

Driving through floodwater poses underestimated risks, often resulting in severe consequences.

The Straits Times’ motoring correspondent, Christopher Tan, warns that submerged kerbs can confuse drivers unfamiliar with the area. This increases the risk of mounting a kerb, getting stuck, or even falling into a flooded drain.

In addition, submerged wheels can compromise brake performance, and water entering the air intake or exhaust system can severely damage your engine and catalytic converter.

There is no win-win situation here. If you damage your engine and catalytic converter, both will be expensive repairs.

If Your Car Stalls in a Flood

If your car stalls in floodwaters, do not attempt to restart it. This will only flood the engine further.

Instead, turn on your hazard lights and move to higher ground. Yes, abandoning your car might feel dramatic, but it’s better than starring in a viral video titled “Local driver attempts to be heroic, but fails”.

Call for help, and leave your vehicle if the water level rises. It could become difficult to open the door once the vehicle is half-submerged.

So this monsoon season, stay alert and remember: treat your vehicle like it’s a car, not a boat.

If you watch at least 10 minutes of brain rot content daily, you must know this:

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Noreen Shazreen
Email: [email protected]