INDIANA, (WOWO): State officials say some heavy rainfall forecasted for parts of Indiana on Friday, combined with continued snowmelt could cause or increase flooding.

Leaders with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security are reminding Hoosiers to be cautious around flood water and to take any watches and warnings seriously.

They say that if you're planning on traveling, to keep the following in mind:

• Never attempt to cross a flooded road, even if it seems shallow. Water can conceal dips, or worse, flood waters can damage roadways, washing away the entire road surface and a significant amount of ground.

• Do not drive around barricades at water crossings. They are there to protect the public. Disregarding warning signs and attempting to cross flooded roads endangers everyone in the vehicle as well as the first responders who may need to come to the aid of those who could become stranded. 

• Remember, just a few inches of moving water is enough to knock people off their feet or cause vehicles to be difficult to handle or cause an engine to stall. Just two feet of water can carry away most vehicles, including SUVs and pick-up trucks. 

For more information about preparing for floods,

visit GetPrepared.IN.gov.