Well when I lived in Indiana, I can say that these flash floods can come so quick that it is easy to get in trouble. Especially at night. But a good rule of thumb is that if the car in front of you stops, you prolly should put it in reverse. ;)
I grew up near long island shore in CT. Number one rule, never ever drive into large puddles. There is no way to be sure of the depth once the road is covered in water.