The eye of Tropical Storm Hermine is scheduled to pass over eastern North Carolina early Saturday. The rainy weather, however, is expected to last through much of the weekend.

Beaufort County has dealt with much worse than a tropical storm, but that does not mean it is any less important to take precautions.

As to be expected, Hermine’s rain showers will bring plenty of flooding, especially in low-lying areas of the county. This means roads will take on water, creating a hazardous situation for those behind the wheel.

Hydroplaning occurs when there is more water on the road than a tire can disperse on impact. While the risk increases as the car’s speed increases, hydroplaning can occur at speeds as low as 35 mph.

The American Safety Council offers tips for drivers: slow down when the roads are wet; avoid standing water; avoid outer lanes where water accumulates; drive in the tracks of the car ahead; do not use cruise control; try not to brake hard (stay farther behind the car in front); avoid making sharp turns.

Also, it’s important for drivers to err on the side of caution when approaching standing water in the road. Even if it seems as though the water is shallow, it is hard to be sure from inside a vehicle. Never assume anything when it comes to standing water.

By the same token, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration is promoting its “Turn Around Don’t Drown” campaign, which encourages drivers to do just that — turn around when there is standing water in the road.

Not only that, drivers with larger vehicles should also be mindful of the wave action their tires create, which leads to more flooding and property damage.

By practicing some extra patience and taking proper safety precautions, Beaufort County residents can ride out the storm with relatively few problems. One’s life — and the lives of other drivers around — is of the utmost importance.

Don’t take any chances. Be smart; be safe.