Safety Reminders for Windy and Highwater Driving Conditions
By Garrett Christensen on Tuesday, January 3rd, 2023 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
OREGON – (Information from the Oregon Department of Emergency Management & Oregon Department of Transportation). When it comes to winter driving hazards, ice and snow are one the minds of many. However, wind and water create their own set of problems. The Oregon Department of Emergency Management and Oregon Department of Transportation would like to remind drivers of the following basic precautions.
Safety for Windy Conditions:
- Maintain a safe distance from high profile vehicles. This includes tractor trailers and busses.
- Keep a firm grip on the wheel with both hands at all times.
- Look out for fallen/falling trees, powerlines or debris. Obstacles may already be strewn across the roadway but may also fall/break loose suddenly during windy conditions.
- Use caution on bridges and overpasses
“Avoid unnecessary travel and stay indoors during the storm if you can. If you must drive in these conditions, use extreme caution. Take it slow and watch for water or debris on the road. Visit Tripcheck.com for updated road conditions.”
Reminders for highwater and flood conditions
- 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock over and carry away an adult
- 12 inches of fast moving water can carry away a small car.
- 18-24 inches of fast moving water can carry away most large SUVs, vans and trucks.
“If you see a flooded road, turn around, don’t drown. Floodwater can be deeper than it appears and there may be hazards underneath that you can’t see.”
