Hurricane Joaquin has decided to move east into the Atlantic Ocean, leaving the North Carolina coast relatively unscathed but dripping wet.

As Joaquin brings the last of the heavy rain showers through the weekend, it is important to remember that while eastern North Carolina will not have to deal with hurricane-force winds and damaging storms, flooding is still a concern.

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 6 inches of water is enough to reach the bottom of a regular car, potentially causing loss of control and stalling. One foot of water can cause a vehicle to lose contact with the road. Two feet of water can potentially carry away sport-utility vehicles (SUVs) and trucks.

People can lose their footing in just 6 inches of water as well, and according to KidsHealth, a child can actually drown in a mere 2 inches of water.

With flooding from the heavy rains of Joaquin, one should always be safe rather than sorry. Even if a road does not appear to be covered by deep water, there is no way to know the actual depth of the water or the condition of the road underneath. Watch for wet spots in the road, as a car can easily hydroplane, even if its tires have decent tread on them.

Also, it is important to check the foundation of one’s home and make sure there is no water damage to one’s property. Standing water after a heavy rainstorm can lead to continuing damage to property after the rain has passed, including the growth of mold and bacteria.

If one ventures out this weekend, remember to avoid standing water and travel on higher roads. Do not take any chances.

Flooding is not to be taken lightly, and in a low-lying area like Beaufort County, residents need to be mindful of the potential dangers.