Oklahomans Should Be Cautious About New Disaster Warning: Flooding

May showers don't just bring flowers. In history, they've also brought tragedy with flooding. Oklahoma is taking to heart May's Flood Awareness month in regards to the excessive rainfall in the last week.

Rainfall in Oklahoma

Areas in Oklahoma have seen up to 8 inches of rain within the last 7 days, with Sulphur and Fittstown seeing the most. According to climate.ok.gov, these are the top 5 areas that have seen the most rainfall in the last week:

1. Fittstown - 8.36 inches
2. Sulphur - 8.00 inches
3. Bixby - 7.28 inches
4. Ardmore - 7.05
5. Stigler - 6.38

Flash Flooding

While several towns are recovering from tornado damage, other areas are tackling flash flooding, one of the common types of flooding in the sooner state. According to the National Weather Service, "flash flooding is a rapid and extreme flow of high water into a normally dry area, or a rapid water level rise in a stream or creek above a predetermined flood level, beginning within six hours of the causative event." Usually, flash flooding follows events like intense rainfall, dam failure or an ice jam.

Turn Around, Don't Drown

When approaching a flooded area, Oklahomans should remember "turn around, don't drown." Areas could be further washed out than what you can see from above the water line. Debris and other obstructions are also likely to be hidden under the murky waters covering road ways and could easily damage your vehicle or prevent you from escaping. Water ending up in the engine can also cause a loss of control or engine stalling.

Instead of taking a chance, especially in an unfamiliar area, avoid areas with "high water" signs posted or obviously flooded areas. The extra time could save you some money or even your life.