Flooding causes multiple road closures overnight
AMES, Iowa – March 14, 2019 – Multiple roadways in western Iowa have closed during the overnight hours due to flooding from snow melt and rainfall. In addition roadways across the state are being impacted by flooding closures. The Iowa Department of Transportation, in cooperation with the Iowa State Patrol, closed a portion of I-29 in both directions from North 25th Street in Council Bluffs (Exit 55) to U.S. 30 at Missouri Valley as well as I-680 in both directions from the Nebraska state line to I-29. Situations are changing rapidly, therefore travelers are urged to check 511ia.org for the most current flood-related closures and detour routes for state-owned interstates and highways.
Iowans are urged to closely monitor conditions and never enter a water-covered roadway. If you are driving and come upon rapidly rising waters, turn around and find another route. Flood waters can quickly force a vehicle off the roadway. In addition, it is not uncommon for roadways and shoulders to be damaged when flooded, presenting unsafe conditions for motorists.
If your route is blocked by barricades, find another route. Barricades are put up by state or local officials to protect travelers from unsafe roads. Driving around them can be a serious risk.
For current updates on Iowa road conditions – 24 hours a day, visit www.511ia.org or call 511. Please remember the 511 system covers state-owned interstates and highways only.
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