Updated at 2:15 p.m.: The Missouri Department of Transportation has closed several highways in south-central Missouri due to flooding.
In Texas County the list this afternoon includes:
The Missouri Department of Transportation listed these roads in Texas County as closed: Highway M in western Texas County, Highway ZZ near White Rock, Brushy Creek Bridge in Houston, Highway 137 north of Raymondville, Highway BB southwest of Licking, Highway VV southeast of Licking and Highway U near Highway 137 in southern Texas County.
In times of heavy rain, MoDOT recommends visiting the online traveler information map, which contains flood postings. With one click at www.modot.org, web visitors can see exactly which routes have been declared flooded and unsafe for motorists.
For additional information regarding this or other transportation-related topics, call the MoDOT Customer Service Center, toll-free, at 888-ASK MoDOT (275-6636). Customers also may e-mail the center at d9csc@modot.mo.gov. Transportation information is available online at www.modot.org/southcentral.
Earlier: Heavy rains can quickly change water levels in the many streams that run near roads throughout Missouri. These rising waters can quickly overtake the road and it is important to think of your safety first.
The Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT) makes a practice of posting high water signs in areas where flooding is a potential in advance of the rising water. As soon as other areas of concern are identified, signs and barricades are posted there as well. Exercising extreme caution is still necessary. One wrong decision can result in a tragic situation.
Drivers encountering water over the roadway should immediately recognize the potential for danger. Flowing streams should not be crossed. The power of moving water should not be underestimated.
According to MoDOT Maintenance Engineer Henry Haggard, the depth of the water can be deceiving and you may not realize what damage has been done to the road. “The road itself may already be washed away underneath,” he said. “If not, as the vehicle’s weight is introduced, it may cause the road to begin to wash away as well. Any time you see water over the road, the best thing to do is turn around and reroute.”
Haggard also warns to take high water signs and barricades seriously. “Do not attempt to drive around barricades and proceed through an unsafe area,” he said. “This is extremely dangerous and the safety warning devices are in place for your protection.”
Most local residents are aware of areas prone to flooding and can take action to keep themselves safe by routing around. In times of heavy rain, MoDOT recommends visiting the online traveler information map, which contains flood postings. With one click at www.modot.org, web visitors can see exactly which routes have been declared flooded and unsafe for motorists.
For additional information regarding this or other transportation-related topics, call the MoDOT Customer Service Center, toll-free, at 1-888-ASK MoDOT (275-6636). Customers also may email the center at d9csc@modot.mo.gov. Transportation information is available online at www.modot.org/southcentral.