Flash floods in Singapore: What to do when driving in heavy rain

Singapore's weather is unpredictable and will on occasion experience prolonged heavy rain, increasing the risk of flash floods in several areas. The deluge also saw Singapore’s National Water Agency (PUB) recently issue several flash flood risk alerts

While the country is constantly improving its drainage system to help manage excess water, sudden downpours can still cause roads to flood quickly. If you’re driving during heavy rain, it’s important to stay cautious and know what to do when faced with a wet, slippery or flooded road. We’re here to help with some basic flood safety tips while driving.

Stay updated on flood alerts

Before heading out, check for flood advisories from the Public Utilities Board (PUB). You can find them on X here. Singapore’s drainage system is designed to handle high volumes of water, but some low-lying areas may still experience temporary flooding. If possible, delay your trip until conditions improve.

Avoid flooded roads

If you see water pooling on the road, do not attempt to drive through it unless you are certain it's safe. Even shallow water can hide road damage or debris, and deeper water can cause your engine to stall.  The general rule of thumb is to avoid water levels of 15cm or more. You may use kerbs as a point of reference, they’re usually 15cm in height.

• If the water level reaches the kerb or covers part of a wheel, find an alternate route. 
• Drive on higher ground whenever possible.
• Follow updates on affected roads through official sources like PUB’s official accounts.

What to do if you MUST drive through floodwaters

Sometimes, you might not have a choice but to drive through a flooded road. If that happens:

• Stay in low gear (for automatic cars, use L mode or manual shift to a lower gear - 1 or 2) and keep a slow speed to maintain better control and avoid aquaplaning.
• Maintain a slow and steady speed of about 7 km/h, and avoid sudden braking. This prevents water waves from rushing into your engine and exhaust pipe. It also keeps your car from floating.
• Follow the highest part of the road. In multi-lane roads, PUB’s advice is to keep to the center lane as it is usually less flooded than the sides.
• If you see another vehicle moving through the water, drive behind it but do not follow too closely to avoid sudden stops.

What to do if your car stalls in a flood

If your car stops in floodwaters, do not restart the engine. Trying to start a wet engine can cause severe damage. Instead:

• Turn on your hazard lights to alert other drivers.
• Exit the vehicle if it is safe to do so. If the water level is rising quickly, leave the car and move to higher ground immediately.
• Call for roadside assistance or emergency services if needed.

After driving through floodwaters

Once you get through the flood, check your brakes by lightly pressing the pedal to ensure they still respond properly. If they feel weak or unresponsive, drive slowly and tap the brakes a few times to dry them out. If you suspect water has entered your engine, transmission, or exhaust, do not continue driving. Get your car checked at a workshop as soon as possible to avoid long-term damage. If you’re looking for a workshop with a trusted team of car experts, look no further than Carro Care. From checking your brakes and engine to diagnosing potential flood damage, our team is equipped to handle it all. 

Insurance coverage

In Singapore, while some car insurance policies may cover flood damage, it's not a standard inclusion, so it's crucial to review your policy details to ensure coverage. Comprehensive insurance policies usually offer protection against flood-related damage, but it's best to confirm with your provider. Looking for comprehensive car insurance that also covers flood damage? Get a quote now with Carro’s car insurance in Singapore - Covered.

Stay safe and plan ahead

Singapore’s weather can change quickly, and flash floods can occur with little warning. Stay updated on road conditions, avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rain, and always be prepared for sudden flooding. If in doubt, it’s safer to wait than to risk driving through deep water. Comprehensive flood safety tips from PUB can be found here.