Patrol urges caution ahead of predicting flooding

A forecast for heavy rain in south-central Missouri has the Missouri State Highway Patrol urging caution.

The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rainfall for the next several days from the remnants of Tropical Cyclone Gordon and a stalled cold front.

The majority of Missouri will experience rain this weekend. Of note is the south-central Missouri area, which could receive four to six inches of rain. Rainfall from Rolla to St. Charles is forecast between four to eight inches from Friday to Saturday.

With that in mind, officials encourage everyone to make good decisions regarding travel in flooded areas. Flooding, especially flash flooding, has proven to be extremely dangerous and can be fatal.

The patrol offers these tips:

•Never think that because you made it across a flooded low water crossing in the past that you’ll make it the next time. 

•Never be tempted to drive into floodwater because it appears shallow. Looks are deceiving and the roadway may not be intact. Floodwater often washes out roads or compromises their structural integrity.

•Less than a foot of moving water is enough to push a vehicle.

•Cars will float when the force of the water is greater than the force of friction. Sand and mud that come with flash flooding reduce the friction force of gravity holding the car in place.

•Think about everything you could lose before trying to save a few minutes by not turning around.

Barricades closing a roadway are there to protect you. Drivers must respect barriers or barricades put in place by MoDOT — it is extremely dangerous and a violation of state law to drive around them.

For information regarding road closures please visit Missouri Department of Transportation’s (MoDOT) road condition map at the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s website www.mshp.dps.mo.gov.

Keep in mind that road conditions can change often with flash floods or heavy rains. The map is updated regularly, but it is not possible for patrol personnel to predict future road closings or water levels of specific rivers, lakes or streams. Drivers are encouraged to check for updates often when planning their route and just before traveling.