Is it safer to park in an underground garage or on the road during heavy rain?
3 Answers
Parking on the ground is generally safer during heavy rain, as underground garages may be at risk of flooding. However, this depends on the adequacy of the garage's drainage system. Below are some key points regarding vehicle water exposure: 1. Do not restart the engine: If the engine stalls during water exposure, immediately activate the hazard lights, turn off the engine, and remove the key. Never attempt to restart the engine, as this can cause severe and irreparable damage, which may not be covered by insurance. 2. Ensure vehicle sealing: If the vehicle is stationary in a flooded garage or parking lot, lock the car and avoid starting the engine. Take all possible measures to seal the vehicle effectively.
I always feel that underground parking garages are safer during heavy rain. Not only do road surfaces tend to accumulate water, but suddenly appearing electric scooters are even more frightening. Last year during a heavy rain in our neighborhood, accumulated water on the road directly flooded the exhaust pipes, causing three cars to break down midway. However, when entering the garage, you need to pay attention to whether the drainage outlets are blocked—I’ve seen garage entrances turn into waterfalls. Remember to park in a higher spot, avoiding walls with signs of water seepage. In case the garage really gets flooded, the car door might be stuck due to water pressure and unable to open, so it’s best to keep a window-breaking hammer in the car.
From a structural safety perspective, underground parking garages are actually more reliable. Once during a typhoon, I was driving on an elevated highway when an advertising board crashed onto the adjacent lane, scaring me out of my wits. Underground spaces eliminate such risks of falling objects from heights. However, it's essential to ensure that flood prevention sandbags are in place and drainage pumps are functioning properly. During heavy rain, visibility in the garage is poor and fogging is common, so it's advisable to turn on front and rear fog lights and drive slowly. Special caution is needed around charging stations for potential electrical leakage hazards; avoiding areas with water accumulation near pillars is safer.
