News & Columns > Michael P. Neufeld > Turn Around and Don’t Drown

Turn Around and Don’t Drown

A Tragic Reminder of Flash Flooding Dangers

By Michael P. Neufeld
Wednesday, August 27, 2008

San Bernardino, CA – San Bernardino County officials have once again warned residents and visitors of the hazards of walking or driving a vehicle through flood waters. Their advice, "Turn Around, Don't Drown."

The death Monday night of 51-year-old Rosemary Sebring Genc, who apparently tried to drive through running water near the San Bernardino County community of Big River, serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers posed by flash flooding.

Despite repeated warnings from emergency personnel, some people continue to risk their lives by driving through running water. The Big River resident apparently drove her 1990 gold Honda Accord into a depression in the roadway about 9:15 p.m. and severe flooding turned her car over trapping her beneath the water, according to the California Highway Patrol. She was pronounced dead at the scene on Rio Vista Road.

Mud and debris flows possible in burn areas. (Photo by Michael P. Neufeld.)

This time of year brings active sudden thunderstorms and showers to areas throughout the county. The rain can sometimes be intense resulting in flash floods. Flash floods can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few minutes and can sometimes occur in washes and creeks far downstream from where the rain is falling. Flash floods often have a dangerous wall of roaring water that carries rocks, mud, and other debris and can sweep away most things in its path.

Be aware of flood hazards no matter where you live, but especially if you live in a low-lying area, near water or downstream from a dam. Even very small streams, gullies, creeks, culverts, washes, dry stream beds, or low-lying ground that appears harmless in dry weather can flood. Never attempt to drive through running water.

Fast flowing Mill Creek at Big Falls crossing. (Photo by Linda Jones.)

The mountain communities are reminded of the dangers of possible debris flows in and below the areas recently burned by the Slide and Grass Valley wildfires. Rainfall that is usually absorbed into the hill slope soils can run off almost instantly after vegetation has been removed by wildfire. The San Bernardino County Department of Public Works wants to keep the public safe and nothing on the other side of flowing water is worth risking you or your family's lives.

Additional information on flooding is available at http://www.sbcounty.gov/dpw/floodcontrol.