Along these same lines -

As always, one part of tropical cyclone landfalls that almost always gets far too little attention, even in situations such as what is happening now, and yet causes a tremendously disproportionate number of fatalities
- Inland Flooding.

Between 1970 and 1999, better than half of all tropical cyclone deaths in the United States were the result of freshwater (inland) flooding. FIVE TIMES that from wind. MORE THAN FOURTEEN TIMES that from tornadoes. NEARLY SIXTY TIMES that from storm surges!

Statistics to remember if you are ever faced with the decision of crossing a flooded roadway
As little as one foot of water can move most cars off the road.
Just six inches of fast-moving flood water can sweep a person off his or her feet.
Most flood-related deaths occur at night and are vehicular.
Urban and small stream flash floods often occur in less than one hour.
Tropical cyclones pose significant risk well inland due to fresh water flooding.

More: Flood Safety Rules (NWS Melborne, Fl.)