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Why do we say 'Turn Around, Don't Drown' during hurricane season?

Even though you hear it a lot from TxDOT and DPS, they actually didn't come up with it.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas —

It was 20 years ago that the National Weather Service launched their Turn Around Don't Drown campaign

Since then, the catchy phrase is something you've heard Texas agencies such as DPS and TxDOT repeat at the beginning of every hurricane season.

If you are faced with floodwaters as a result of Hurricane Beryl -- or any storm -- the National Weather Service has a few recommendations:

First, never drive into flooded areas. The NWS recommends that if floodwater rises around your car, you should abandon it and move to higher ground if possible.  

It only takes about six inches of water to reach the bottom of most cars which can cause you to lose control and even stall. 

One to 2 ft. of water can float, and even carry most vehicles away. That even includes bigger vehicles like SUVs and pick-ups.

Don't forget that it's the law to obey all road signs and warnings during an emergency. According to TxDOT, driving around barriers that block low water crossings or flooded roads can result in a fine of up to $2,000 or even 180 days in jail.

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