It is the season again of what people in the Philippines call “BED WEATHER”. Our Automologist KATHLEEN over at the Philippines thinks it’s not so great for our cars. Here is her rule of thumb on whether to keep driving in this weather.
Who can resist that lazy feeling of not doing anything because it is raining outside? And then there are students for whom class is suspended or workers advised by employers to go home—commuting home on flooded streets and highways is really difficult to do.
In the Philippines, which forest has been devastated by illegal loggers, most cities experience chronic flooding during this kind of weather. In times like this, do you DRIVE OR DIVE? How do you determine if driving through floodwaters is safe for you and your car?
Tyre level – SAFE
If the level of the floodwaters doesn’t go above the tyres and water doesn’t get into the car interior and engine, it is fine and you are most certainly good to go. The engine heat will basically dry out any residual water. Having said that, you will still need to check under the car as soon as possible—all kinds of debris can get stuck under it.
Seat level – WATCH OUT
Parked at the wrong spot or driving through already flooded streets? And the water has entered your car, right up to just below the seats? You are still fine but be ready to clean the mess up. Watch out, though. If the water level is still going up, move your car to a higher elevation.
Dashboard level – DANGER
If the water has gotten inside the car and the waterline is above the seat, you should pull over and immediately get out of the car. If the water is at the level of the dashboard and you are still inside your car, you must love your car better than your life.
Have you experienced these stressful moments inside your car during floods? Did you drive or dive?
