How to Act if a Flood Catches You in Your Car

Heavy rains in Spain due to the Dana storm are devastating areas of Andalusia, Galicia, Madrid, and the Valencian Community. Many have been caught in their cars, and it will continue to happen, so it is very important to be clear about a series of tips. Initially, we should not worry too much if the water level has reached halfway up the wheels, approximately. In this case, the car can start, but it is likely that we will have to replace the catalytic converter. If the water has not entered the interior of the cabin, we will be lucky.

In a vehicle, the damage caused to a car after a flood or when submerged in water can be very diverse, ranging from breaks and dents to mechanical failures that will largely depend on the level reached by the water.

Otherwise, if the water has reached above the engine level, the first thing we must do is avoid the temptation to try to start the engine. We can turn on the ignition to check if the windows and lights work, thus ensuring that the electrical system is more or less fine. If all the electrical components work, it will be an excellent sign.

If the water has entered through the engine's air intake and reached the cylinders, it can cause problems in a connecting rod. This failure is less likely in a gasoline engine than in a diesel because the ignition system usually fails first.

If the water reaches a higher level, this mud can clog the radiator. If this happens, the engine could overheat. The solution is to clean the radiator from the outside. And if water enters the interior of the car, the upholstery, trims, and control panels will need to be replaced, as well as all the insulators and fasteners that these elements have.

If the internal drains of the bodywork are also blocked, the water will rust the sheet metal, and the electrical connections may be affected, as they are prepared to withstand some moisture but not to withstand immersion. And although it is advisable to avoid traveling as much as possible during very heavy rains, if it is still necessary to do so, the phone must be fully charged in case help is needed.

According to Fundación Mapfre, "if we encounter a flooded section of road ahead, it is advisable not to cross it, no matter how shallow it seems, to turn around and find an alternative route. If there is no option, if the water barely covers, it is best to abandon the vehicle, keeping in mind that there may be sinkholes."

The most terrifying option is to see the car fall into a deep body of water, at which point we must prepare to evacuate it. It is essential to remain calm, as difficult as it may seem. Remember that the car will take minutes to submerge and that there is time, although you must act quickly.

If it is still floating, the first step is to immediately open the windows and try to get out, swimming to a safe place. If the car has already partially sunk, the water pressure may prevent you from opening the door, in which case you will have to wait for the interior to flood as well.