“It only takes about six inches of moving water to sweep an adult off their feet and carry them down stream,” GPFD Battalion Chief Joe Harvey mentioned.
GRAND PRAIRIE, Texas — Grand Prairie Fire Department’s swift water rescue group is ready to deal with any potential flash flooding emergencies subsequent week.
Rain chances are high within the forecast for subsequent week. But the bottom is extremely dry, which makes it gradual to soak up water. In truth, North Texas is on observe to report one of many driest years on report.
“It only takes about six inches of moving water to sweep an adult off their feet and carry them down stream,” GPFD Battalion Chief Joe Harvey mentioned.
Harvey added that our space usually sees about 70 flash flood occasions yearly.
GPFD instructed WFAA its swift water rescue group is made up of round two dozen members and 4 boats: Two have a motor for rescues in fast-paced water and the opposite two are for emergencies in nonetheless, excessive water.
“It’s unpredictable. The sun can be shining one minute and the next minute, a downpour. So that’s the most difficult thing. But we’re prepared,” Harvey mentioned.
Crews endure intense coaching and are prepared to answer emergencies 24/7.
GPFD mentioned drivers ought to be careful for the realm round Cottonwood Creek close to Carrier Parkway as a result of it tends to flood.
“We’ve done a lot of work to improve it, but it still floods,” Harvey mentioned.
If you do get caught in an emergency state of affairs, GPFD is encouraging North Texans to remain calm and know their location.
“More people perish in flash flooding than any other severe weather event,” Harvey mentioned.
GPFD encourages residents to sign up for AlertGP to obtain notifications concerning extreme climate.
story by The Texas Tribune Source link