[Hieronymus]

Your question is a very good one. In some houses there is a feasible way, but it strikes me that in others one is basically toast. Making it to the attic at that point and hoping that the water doesn’t rise further may not be a good option, but it may be the best option in a given situation.

[Aliska]

Hieronymus, Agreed that some houses offer various ease of access means to the roof one way or another. Short of that, I guess it's better to take a chance even though some lost their lives.

Lorianne, A lot of people didn't seem to have an ax or anything else to batter with which would take some strength possibly in a very awkward position. I forgot to say people who didn't have an ax like the woman in the article found out about one person she talked to. Also good points about swimming and flotation devices for those who can.

But given swimming and flotation, they'd still have to pull themselves onto the roof if approaching from the outside which might be impossible for some.

Thanks for the responses.

[Don W]

One more reason to keep an axe in the attic.

It’s amazing how desperation gives strength...