Question: It seems like we have been seeing a fair amount of rain along with flash flood warnings. Can you talk about what motorists should do if they encounter such a thing?

Answer: Flooding can happen when streams and rivers overflow, dams or levees break, snow melts rapidly, or during heavy rainfall. Floodwaters can cover roads, bridges and low areas. Flash floods can come quickly and without warning, within minutes or hours of excessive rainfall.

• Do not drive through flooded areas. If you see a flooded roadway ahead, turn around and find another route.
• Be cautious, especially at night when visibility is limited.
• Remember, 6 inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control or possible stalling.
• 2 feet of moving water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pickup trucks.
• Even if the water appears shallow, do not attempt to cross a flooded road. Water can hide dips or damage roadways by washing away the surface.
• If there is no other route, proceed to higher ground and wait for the waters to subside.

A portion of state statutes were used with permission from the Office of the Revisor of Statutes. If you have any questions concerning traffic related laws or issues in Minnesota, send your questions to Trp. Jesse Grabow – Minnesota State Patrol at 1000 Highway 10 West, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501-2205.  (You can follow him on X @MSPPIO_NW or reach him at, jesse.grabow@state.mn.us).