ELI5: Why does flood water move cars even though cars are heavy?

Imagine you are in a swimming pool. You can easily lift your friend, right? Even if they are bigger than you, it's easier in the water. That's because of something called buoyancy.

Flood water is like a giant swimming pool. Here's why it can move cars:

• Buoyancy helps: Water pushes up on everything in it. This upward force is buoyancy. The higher the water level around the car, the more buoyancy pushes up. This makes the car feel lighter.

• Force of the water: Imagine a strong wind pushing you. Flood water does the same thing, but even stronger! The water rushes past the car, pushing it along. This pushing force is very powerful, especially if the water is moving fast.

• **Cars aren't that heavy in water: While cars seem heavy on land, buoyancy significantly reduces their effective weight in water. If the buoyancy is strong enough, it can almost "float" the car.

• Loss of friction: Normally, your car's tires grip the road. But when the road is covered in water, there is less friction. It's like trying to walk on ice! With less friction, it's much easier for the water to push the car.