Lubbock Driver Swept Away Inside Vehicle After Massive Rainfall

With all of the rainfall and thunderstorms that Lubbock and much of West Texas have been seeing lately, it's more important than ever to remember that it doesn't take a lot of water on the road to create hazardous conditions.

This is especially the case after one driver in Lubbock attempted to cross floodwater in their car, getting swept away in the process.

Lubbock Driver Floats Down the Road

Following heavy rainfall on Monday night, the Lubbock Police Department received a call that a driver attempted to cross a fast-moving stream near 300 Cesar E. Chavez Drive. His vehicle lost traction, and he was eventually swept away with the current.

Fortunately, the driver was able to safely exit the vehicle amidst the rainfall, and emergency responders, which even included the Lubbock Fire Rescue Dive Team, were able to retrieve the vehicle from the water.

Stay Safe When Roads are Flooded

Instances like what happened here in Lubbock are perfect reminders for us all that we need to treat water hazards on the road with the severity that they deserve. This driver was able to safely exit the situation, but there are many each year in Texas who lose their lives in high floodwaters after they choose to risk it.

The problem is that people often underestimate the strength of flood waters and the force of the current.

According to the National Weather Service, just six inches of water is strong enough to knock over an adult, while a foot of rushing water can carry away most cars. Two feet of water can be strong enough to sweep away SUVs and large trucks.

So, the next time you are driving in heavy rainfall, don't even think about risking driving through rushing water. I don't care how "shallow" you think it is or how fast you are going, it's never worth the risk to your own life or the health of your vehicle.