Severe storms are expected to continue moving through Louisville and surrounding areas in the coming days, bringing a variety of weather conditions, including potential floods.
The National Weather Service in Louisville says it’s possible to see tornadoes, damaging winds, widespread flooding and hail as the storm system moves east across Kentucky with some areas possibly seeing up to 15 inches of rain.
Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency ahead of the weather system, and incoming storms follow a series of devastating floods in February that left 24 dead and closed Kentucky roads and highways for multiple days.
With risks of flooding, drivers should use caution out on the roads. Here are some tips for driving safety.
More: Louisville weather updates: State of emergency declared for KY ahead of severe storms
Drive slow
Those on the road should drive slow and keep a good distance between themselves and the vehicle ahead.
AAA recommends driving at a speed that’s consistent with the amount of water on the road. At 30 mph or less, properly inflated tires with good tread will maintain contact but even a brand new tire will lose some contact at speeds as low as 35 mph.
At 60 mph, for example, water may completely separate the tire from the road and cause hydroplaning.
Don’t use cruise control
In wet conditions, it’s not a good idea to use cruise control. The chance of losing control of the vehicle can increase and it’s important to keep traction by slowing down and lifting off the accelerator, which can’t be done when in cruise control, the AAA says.
What is hydroplaning?
Hydroplaning occurs when a vehicle starts sliding uncontrollably because there is more water than the tire treads can displace. In other words, it’s when tires rise up on a film of water. The tires can lose contact with the pavement and cause the car to lose control.
How to avoid hydroplaning
Here are ways to make sure you don’t hydroplane:
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Drive in the tracks of the vehicle ahead of you
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Leave enough room between you and the vehicle in front of you.
What to do if you start hydroplaning
If hydroplaning occurs, don’t panic and don’t slam on the brakes or the car could lose whatever traction it has left on the road.
Drivers should stay calm and take their foot off the gas before correcting the spin. To correct the spin and gain control of the car, turn the steering wheel in the direction the car is sliding, US News recommends.
For example, if the back of the car starts sliding right, turn the wheel right. As the car slowly straightens out, mirror the movement with the steering wheel.
Former Courier Journal reporter Rachel Aretakis contributed. Reach Marina Johnson at [email protected].
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Tips for driving in the rain: How to avoid hydroplaning
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