Alternative places to park during heavy floods

With climate change leading to an increase in extreme weather events, such as heavy rainfall and flooding, finding safe parking options during such times has become a pressing concern. Traditional parking lots and streets can quickly transform into waterlogged areas, posing a significant risk to vehicles. To address this issue, exploring alternative places to park during flooding can help vehicle owners protect their valuable assets. In this article, we will delve into various creative and practical options for parking during flood events, ensuring the safety of vehicles even in challenging times.

Multi-level parking structures are often built to withstand extreme weather conditions and are an excellent choice during flooding. These structures are elevated above the ground, reducing the risk of water damage to parked vehicles. Many urban areas have multi-level parking garages that can serve as reliable alternatives during flooding events. It is advisable to research and identify such structures in advance that offer parking services during storms and typhoons, ensuring easy access and peace of mind during a flood. SM is one mall chain that usually offers such a service and is usually free of charge in times of need, so keep peeled for announcements from the brand whenever hard rains are coming. 

Commercial underground parking facilities from condominiums or business centers often have well-maintained and flood-resistant parking structures. These establishments usually invest in adequate drainage systems and flood prevention measures, ensuring a safe parking environment. Moreover, these facilities may provide added security features, such as surveillance cameras or security guards, enhancing the protection of parked vehicles during a flood event. So yes, underground parking does not mean more risk since, more often than not, these structures are engineered to withstand these kinds of conditions. If you know someone with an extra condominium or office parking that you can use at these times, try calling them and see if they an accommodate your ride until the rains stop.

Identifying elevated grounds and hills in your vicinity can provide a haven for your vehicle during floods. These locations are less susceptible to flooding due to their higher elevation. Public parks, open spaces, or even private properties on higher ground can be viable options for parking during flood emergencies. 

However, it is important to obtain proper permissions if you plan to park on private property, ensuring you respect the rights of the landowner or village association. In addition, it’s best to park in places you are familiar with or know someone who lives nearby. Parking in unknown areas still puts your car at risk of being stolen, or towed. It doesn’t matter if you prevent your car from being flooded if it gets stolen anyway, right?

During extreme flood events, some cities or municipalities may establish temporary parking relocation services, usually in Barangay Hall basketball courts, or City halls. These services provide designated parking areas away from flood-prone zones to protect vehicles during emergencies. 

During times of calamity, staying updated with local authorities, emergency management agencies, or community groups can help you learn about such initiatives and take advantage of the temporary parking arrangements. Your local city hall or Barangay social media pages usually give updates on when their facilities are available.

Pooling resources and sharing parking spaces can be a practical approach during flooding situations. Coordinate with neighbors, friends, or colleagues to identify safe parking options together. Sharing a parking garage or elevated ground can help safeguard multiple vehicles and reduce the overall parking demand, ensuring that available spaces are utilized more efficiently. Should you be one of the lucky homeowners with safe and elevated parking and a surplus of space, be a kind neighbor and shelter their beloved ride for them if you are able.

This is the worst-case scenario and a nightmare for car owners in flood-prone areas. You didn’t have time to find a safe parking space and the flood is closing in on your car, what do you do? If the option of driving your car to an elevated area is out of the picture, there’s still a way to give yourself a fighting chance to keep your car above water.

If you have a floor jack and four jack stands available, you can lift your car and secure it on the stands at the highest point possible before the floodwaters reach you. If jack stands aren’t available, solid concrete blocks can also provide some extra height while you wait out the rain. Gaining those extra inches could be the difference between keeping your car dry or facing flood damage.

With the increasing frequency of flooding events, it is crucial to be prepared and identify alternative places to park during such challenging times. The safety and protection of vehicles are paramount, and exploring options like multi-level parking structures, elevated grounds, commercial parking facilities, rooftop parking, temporary parking relocation services, and shared parking arrangements can greatly mitigate the risks associated with flooding. 

Remember to plan ahead, stay informed, and prioritize safety when selecting an alternative parking location during flood events. Don’t be that person who will have their car totaled due to last-minute decisions; should a potential typhoon be approaching, it is best to act early. By taking proactive measures, we can safeguard our vehicles and minimize the potential financial and emotional stress caused by water damage.