(COLUMBIA, MO) ~ Columbia Fire Department Responds to Multiple Water Rescues During Severe Thunderstorms

On Tuesday, June 3, the Columbia Fire Department (CFD) was called into action as severe thunderstorms swept through the city. At approximately 5:52 p.m., CFD received reports of multiple vehicles trapped in floodwater at the intersection of Paris Road and Vandiver Drive. Within three minutes, Quint 4 arrived on the scene and discovered two vehicles affected by the rising water.

The CFD's water rescue team quickly responded and successfully rescued all individuals involved. By 6:19 p.m., the scene was cleared and barricades and signage were put in place to warn drivers of the hazardous conditions.

Later that night, at 11:15 p.m., firefighters were once again dispatched for a water rescue, this time at South Rolling Hills Road and Sugar Grove Road. A vehicle had become trapped in floodwater and water rescue personnel arrived within eight minutes to safely rescue the occupant. The scene was cleared by 11:48 p.m. and additional barricades and signage were placed due to the ongoing dangerous conditions.

Fortunately, there were no injuries reported from either incident involving both occupants and firefighters.

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According to CFD officials, road conditions can deteriorate rapidly during flash flooding events. Intense rainfall can overwhelm drainage systems, especially in low-lying or poorly drained areas. Even roads that may have appeared clear just moments before can become treacherous without warning as water levels rise quickly, making it difficult to see hazards such as deep water, debris or washed-out pavement.

In light of these recent incidents, CFD is urging drivers to heed the National Weather Service's message: "Turn Around, Don't Drown." It only takes about 12 inches of moving water to carry away a small car, so drivers should never attempt to drive through flooded roadways no matter how shallow they may appear. It is also important to avoid roads that are barricaded or appear to be covered in water, even if they are familiar routes.

Even after the rain has stopped, floodwaters can linger or rise due to runoff. If a road is barricaded or appears flooded, it is best to find an alternate route. Drivers should exercise extra caution at night when visibility is limited. CFD emphasizes that it is always better to take a few extra minutes and be safe rather than risk one's life or the lives of first responders who may need to perform a rescue.

Flooding can be unpredictable and conditions can change rapidly, so CFD advises residents to stay informed and safe by signing up for RAVE alerts through Boone County Joint Communications. These alerts provide timely updates about severe weather, road conditions, and closures.

In conclusion, as CFD reminds us, "You can't outdrive a flash flood - turn around every time."

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