Take flash flooding seriously while driving

Last weekend, heavy rain caused quite a bit of flash flooding across the area.

Several agencies responded to rescue two people whose vehicle was swept away while trying to cross a low-water bridge in northern Bollinger County, near Patton, Missouri.

Thankfully, the people in the vehicle, who were stranded for nearly 45 minutes, were saved. The rushing water was waist-deep where they were trapped in their car. As little as 12 inches of running water can carry off a small car; 18 to 24 inches can carry off larger vehicles, according to government safety tips. More than half of flooding deaths each year occur in vehicles.

Many county roads, particularly in rural counties, have low-water bridges that are frequently flooded during and after heavy rains. These areas can be hazardous. Having to turn around to take an alternate route can mean an extra 30 minutes or more of driving. Some homeowners may have no other routes to take.

Even so, it's not worth the risk to drive through rushing water.

We're grateful that emergency responders and volunteers were able to help the trapped individuals.

The situation served as another reminder that flooded roadways should be taken very seriously by motorists.

Please don't risk your life by driving through rushing water.