Driving through floodwaters can lead to severe consequences, including vehicles being swept away, engines stalling, and electrical systems failing due to water damage. Floodwater can also carry hazardous materials such as sewage, fuel, and chemicals, posing health risks to those who wade through it. The NWS warns that even a few inches of water can lift a vehicle, rendering steering and brakes ineffective. Familiar routes are not immune to flooding, and drivers should not assume roads are safe based on past experiences.