Book 7, Question 139
Why Never Play in Drainage Ditches After Rain?
A ditch after a rainstorm might look like a fun place to splash. It is not safe! Ditches collect lots of rain very quickly, and the water can move fast, with hidden currents underneath.
From the book
Page from A Million Whys Book 7
More fun facts
- Storm drains can get overwhelmed or clogged with debris during heavy rain and flood nearby streets.
- Low spots like underpasses, low water crossings, and drainage areas can quickly become very dangerous.
- Floodwater can carry fast-moving debris that can hurt people.
- Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet.
- In the United States, flooding causes more deaths than tornadoes, hurricanes, or lightning.
Sources: NOAA, NOAA, National Geographic Kids
Questions kids ask
How much water can knock a kid down?
Just 6 inches of fast-moving water can knock a person off their feet.
Why are ditches dangerous after rain?
They fill up fast, and the water can move quickly and carry debris.