HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) – Hampton Roads is home to some of the most flood prone areas on the east coast as our area experiences everything from storm surge flooding during tropical systems to heavy rainfall which can close off roadways.

During a flooding event, it is important to know where some of the more at risk areas are and why they flood more frequently.

For the majority of cases, urban areas, especially those that are low-lying, will usually experience more extreme flooding from rainfall. This is due to a combination of factors. The first being that highly developed areas have a lot of cement around and this cement does not allow rainwater drain into the soil as effectively as grass or dirt.

Additionally, low-lying areas are more susceptible to water rises since gravity will carry the water into those areas naturally, thus raising the water level. For urban areas with poor drainage systems or drains clogged with debris, this will make the flooding situation worse.

In rural areas, the porous nature of the soil can allow for water to seep into the Earth more effectively leading to a bit less of a flood threat for most cases. Additionally, there are more outlets for water to runoff into like streams or creeks which can help divert water away from surrounding development.

This doesn’t mean that rural areas are totally safe from flooding but the natural soil and nearby bodies of water will just give the water a place to go instead of piling water up in an urban neighborhood.

Rural areas can still be impacted by flooding especially along country roadways. As the heavy rain falls and soaks into the soil, the ground can become loose and lead to road washouts or even sinkholes.

This is especially true for roads along rivers and streams where water rises can lead to erosion which can cause damage to country roads.

If you are ever driving and come across a flooded roadway, do not take the risk and try to drive straight through it. Remember the phrase “turn around and don’t drown” as just six inches of water can be enough to wash an adult off their feet.