TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – With a tropical wave forecast to move across South Florida this weekend, the Florida Highway Patrol urges motorists to use added caution over the next few days. The Florida Division of Emergency Management says the tropical system could bring heavy rain and possible flooding to parts of the area. Forecasts call for one to three inches of rain to fall across South Florida through the weekend. Localized rainfall amounts could reach as high as six inches.
The Florida Highway Patrol advises drivers to follow these safety tips that can save lives:
· Stay Updated. — For real-time traffic and road condition reports, as well as maps and additional safety tips, FHP encourages motorists to visit www.flhsmv.gov/fhp/. Florida drivers also can call 511 on their cell phone or visit FL511.com for up-to-the-minute updates on traffic congestion, road construction, lane closures, severe weather and travel delays on interstates and major highways. Be sure to keep up with local weather forecasts.
· Stay put. – Avoid driving in heavy storms. Often, injuries and deaths occur in the aftermath of storms. Sightseers impeding roadways cause obstacles for emergency personnel responding to those in need.
· Slow down. – Roadways remain slick after storm so if you have to drive, decrease your speed to avoid hydroplaning.
· Be cautious of high winds. – Windy conditions adversely affect all vehicles, particularly high profile vehicles, such as buses and trucks, as well as motorcycles. Gusty wind makes driving difficult, especially when it is rapidly changing speed and direction.
· Pay attention. – You may come up on an intersection that is no longer controlled by a traffic control device. If a law enforcement officer is directing traffic, follow his directions. Otherwise, treat the intersection as you would treat an intersection governed by a four-way Stop sign.
· Flooding safety. –Never drive into moving water. If you cannot see the roadway beneath the water, do not drive through it! The water may be deeper than it appears, and the road may be washed away.
