One Year Later: Safety Tips for Flash Floods

It's been a little unsettling living in Beijing this week. First, the fatal stabbings of two pedestrians near the Joy City Chaoyang shopping center, and then Saturday evening's explosion at Beijing Capital International Airport's Terminal 3. And while no inclement weather is predicted, Sunday marks the one-year anniversary of record rain in Beijing, leading to flash floods that killed a shocking 77 people.

Many were trapped in their cars or stuck in flooded overpasses. Some simply attempted to cross the street, not realizing that the street had become filled with water over their heads, and, unable to swim, drowned.

The biggest change to come from the flood seems to be the announcement of a warning system, although the implementation of that system remains unclear, with only 10 days left in July, traditionally Beijing's rainiest month. The flooding was not due to a lack of notification, but a dearth of proper drainage throughout the city.

Although the forecast for the coming week doesn't indicate inclement weather, here are some tips for avoiding problems during flooding:

• Avoid large puddles or other flooded areas. This seems like common sense, but too many people have attempted to cross areas of water on foot, bicycle, or car, only to discover the water was deeper than expected.
• Do not hesitate to leave a vehicle if in doubt.
• If water levels prevent the opening of a vehicle door, open the window and try to escape through it. If water levels are above the windows, the glass may need to be broken using the headrest to allow the car to flood -- equalizing the water pressure inside and outside will likely assist escape.

Hard to believe we're offering information on dealing with flooding in a landlocked city known for its dry climate, but after last year's tragic drownings, better safe than sorry.

Photo: photoblog.nbcnews.com