How to Safely Navigate City Floods

Photo by Tear Cordez, via Pexels

It's the middle of typhoon season, when flooded streets are an all-too-common sight in Philippine cities. Whether you're driving through Metro Manila, Cebu, or Davao, sudden rain storms can turn a dry road into a waist-deep hazard within minutes. Knowing what to do (and what not to do) can save your car - and your wallet - from irreparable damage.

The best way to avoid getting caught in a flood is to not be on the road at all. If it starts raining really hard, and travel is not necessary, then just stay home. But if you find yourself in a situation where you need to drive somewhere, we have some tips for you, starting with some Dos and Don'ts.

DOs:

1. Stop and assess the situation before entering floodwaters.

Check the depth by observing the height of the water compared to other vehicles parked, the sidewalk, or other objects on the road. Watch for motorcycles as well. If they are struggling, stalling or tipping, it’s too deep for a car. As a general rule, if the water is higher than half of your wheel and tire, stay away.

It also helps to observe other cars that are passing through to see exactly how deep the water is throughout the flooded area. It may look shallow as you enter the water, but the depth of the water can change as you go through.

2. Avoid running water.

Any flood that has a current can sweep your car away even if it seems shallow. You will be surprised how even a seemingly slow-moving current can sweep you and your car away.

3. If you are going for it, drive slow and steady, and avoid stopping.

Use 1st gear in manuals or L or 1 in automatics, and maintain low but steady RPMs. You want to drive slowly, and in a constant slow speed to create a small bow wave in front of your vehicle.

Allow the car in front of you to get through the flooded area before you enter. You want to avoid stopping mid-flood, and keep moving smoothly until you’re through. If the car ahead of you stops suddenly, you may find yourself having to stop and then getting stuck.

4. Find the highest point of the road.

Roads are not completely flat, and some lanes will have deeper waters than other. Look for the highest point of the road and drive there.

5. Stay alert for hidden dangers.

It is hard to see the bottom of flood waters, which can hide open manholes, potholes, or other hazards beneath the surface. Look for markers like traffic cones and signs that might signal some sort of obstacle. It also helps to allow other cars to pass in front of you, and if they go through without an issue, retrace their path across.

6. Test your brakes after getting through.

Once you’re clear of the flood, lightly tap your brakes while driving slowly to check for their responsiveness. Expect a significant reduction in your brakes' stopping power. To address this, lightly tap on the brakes several times while driving slowly to dry them and sweep away dirt, mud, and oil coming from flood waters.

7. If you are braving bad weather, have an emergency kit ready.

Getting caught in badly flooded area can get you stuck on the road and in your car for hours. It's best to have a waterproof bag with emergency supplies and tools if you are going to drive in flood-prone weather. Things like a flashlight, extra clothes, towel, first-aid kit, power bank, basic tools, snacks, and drinking water will all come in handy. And make sure to keep this bag within easy reach. Putting your supplies in the trunk means having to get out of the car and getting drenched trying to retrieve it.

8. Make sure you have mobile data and a charged phone.

It is easier than ever to get information on flooded areas and routes that are safer to pass through, none of this can be accessed without mobile data, and mobile data is useless in a phone with a dead battery.

DON’Ts:

1. Don’t assume you can follow larger vehicles.

Just because a truck or SUV made it through doesn't mean your sedan or hatchback can. The water they push aside may return and trap your car.

2. Don’t speed through the flood.

Driving fast can cause water to splash up into your engine bay, air intake, or exhaust, all of which are bad for the car.

3. Don’t attempt to restart your engine if it stalls in the water.

If your engine dies mid-flood, do NOT try to restart it. Water may have entered the combustion chamber. Starting it can cause severe engine damage. If your car stalls, call for a tow service immediately.

4. Don’t use hazard lights while moving.

Hazard lights should only be used by stopped vehicles only. Use headlights and fog lights, not hazards, while moving.

5. Don’t just rely on Waze or Google Maps.

These apps don't always reflect real-time flood data. It's best to also check social media posts, MMDA advisories, or even live video feeds (if available).

6. Don’t pass through side streets or roads that are unfamiliar to you.

Side streets and small roads tend to flood quicker than large roads do. Stick to main roads and roads that you know are not prone to flooding. Main roads have the added advantage of having more flood information available online.

Stop immediately and turn around (if possible) when:

- Water levels go above half your wheel and tire.

- There's a strong current or rippling water movement.

- You see multiple stalled vehicles.

- You’re unsure of what’s ahead or can’t see the road.

After Driving Through Floods:

- Have your vehicle checked ASAP—especially the brakes, fluids, and electronics.

- If water entered the cabin, dry out interiors immediately to prevent mold. Use fans or hair driers if needed.

- For insurance purposes, document the crossing with photos or videos, especially if damage occurs.

Final Advice:

Remember: When in doubt, turn around and wait it out. It’s better to be late than stuck or swept away. Many flood-related car breakdowns and rescues in the Philippines happen because of overconfidence or misinformation. Drive smart, stay informed, and never underestimate floodwater.

We hope you all stay safe during the rainy season, and if you need the world's top parts and accessories for your car, come check out AutoPerformance. Contact us to find a dealer near you, or buy now at the AutoPerformance Official Store in Lazada.