Extreme weather that results in flash flooding, tornadoes or ice storm are difficult to deal with when you’re inside a car. In most cases, it makes sense to simply abandon the vehicle and seek cover in higher ground (for flash flooding) or a basement or ditch (for tornadoes). In icy weather, you may end up losing control of your car and skidding over the pavement or road.
Cars that are well-maintained are easier to control, so always make sure you keep your brakes and tires in top condition. Replace worn tires and keep them well-inflated. Change to winter tires if you live in an area prone to freezing. If you start to skid when driving, ease off the gas and steer to point the front of the car in the correct direction. Cars with ABS technology will get off a skid if you break as you steer. Skids can also happen during the summer, on wet roads.
Extreme cold or hot weather can affect the breaking and steering mechanisms of a car, so try to keep your car in the shade or indoors whenever possible. Also, make sure there’s enough anti-freeze or coolant in the car to protect the engine against sudden changes in temperature.