JEFFERSON CITY -- Moving barricades or driving over flooded roads could be deadly. With flooding impacting roads and bridges across the state, the Missouri Department of Transportation wants to remind travelers to pay attention to all posted signs.
“The phrase ‘Turn Around, Don’t Drown’ is the best advice we can give drivers,” said Becky Allmeroth, MoDOT’s chief safety officer and maintenance engineer. “With major rivers rising and flash flooding covering routes throughout the state, motorists need to check the Traveler Information Map before heading out.”
Travelers should heed barricades barring travel across flooded roads. Several water rescues have already occurred across the state. Almost all of them could have been avoided if the driver had not attempted to cross a flooded route.
“I’m always flabbergasted to learn someone has driven around -- or even moved -- a barricade to get across a flooded route,” Allmeroth said. “They are literally putting their lives, and the lives of their passengers, in jeopardy. It’s not only dangerous, it’s illegal.”
During flooding the road may have collapsed under the water. Water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed out road surfaces, electrical wires and chemicals.
According to the National Weather Service, it takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away a small car, while 2 feet of rushing water can carry away almost any vehicle. It is NEVER safe to drive or walk into flood waters. Downed power lines, hidden debris or one false step can lead to injury or even death.
With more rain forecast across the state for the next few days, MoDOT advises all travelers check the Traveler Information Map before heading out, even if your current location appears not to be affected by flooding. You can also call 1-888-275-6636 (Ask MoDOT) to talk to a MoDOT customer service representative 24-hours a day.
###
For more information, call MoDOT at 888-ASK-MODOT (275-6636) or visit www.modot.org. To receive the latest statewide news and text alerts, signup for e-updates.