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Auburn, Feb. 22---Flash floods and floods are the No.1 cause of deaths associated with thunderstorms. More than 140 fatalities are recorded each year. Most flash flood fatalities occur at night and most victims are people who become trapped in automobiles.

Flash floods occur in mountain canyons and valleys and in normally dry washes. They also can occur where houses or towns are built close to streams.

Six inches of fast-moving water can knock you off your feet; a depth of 2 feet will cause most vehicles to float, says Dr. Tony Cook, program specialist with the Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Flash floods can pick up cars, campers and mobile homes. They can roll large rocks, knock down trees, and rip out roads and bridges.

The National Weather Service says a flash flood watch means there may be flooding. Stay alert and watch for thunderstorms. Keep an eye on rivers, creeks and streams. If they rise, don't wait; get to high ground fast.

A flash flood warning means there is flooding. Act at once. Move to a safe area on high ground.

Be prepared for a flash flood warning by being alert and having a plan, says Cook. Know where there is high ground and how to get there. Keep out of storm drains. Don't play in irrigation ditches, dry washes or other waterways. These places can be dangerous even in fair weather. When it rains, the water can get deep fast and the current can be very strong.

Whenever it rains or there is thunder and lightning in nearby hills, campers should be ready to move out quickly if they see water increasing in speed or depth.

If you are in a car, watch for flooding at bridges and dips in the road. Never drive where water is over bridges or roads, adds Cook. Rapidly rising water can carry your car away and you with it, or the road may already be washed out. Anytime your car or recreational vehicle is trapped in water, leave it. Move quickly to high ground.

At night you can't see the dangers of flooding. Be especially careful. If you drive into water by mistake, stop, get out and climb to high ground immediately.

After a flash flood is over, keep listening to radio and TV reports. The flooding may spread and large areas may be under water.