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Localized flooding impacts County roads

Localized flooding due to heavy rain impacted more than 40 Washington County roads on Tuesday (Feb. 12).
News article
Release date: 02/13/2019
Sponsored by: Department of Land Use and Transportation, Operations and Maintenance Division

Localized flooding due to heavy rain impacted more than 40 Washington County roads on Tuesday (Feb. 12).

Several roads have re-opened, but as of noon today (Feb. 13), three roads remained closed and 25 roads had lanes closed. For a complete list of road impacts, including an interactive map, visit wc-roads.com or @WashCoRoads on Twitter.

The National Weather Service forecast is calling for more precipitation throughout the weekend. Travelers may continue to see water over roads as a result. Please follow these safety tips:

  • Never drive through moving water. As little as 6 inches of water can sweep a vehicle off the road.
  • Slow down. Vehicle reaction time is slower on wet pavement.
  • Signal early and brake gently. This will help avoid hydroplaning and sliding.
  • Turn lights on. Lights improve visibility, which can be reduced in heavy rain.
  • Increase following distance. When visibility is low, increasing following distance to at least 4 seconds (6 seconds in extreme weather) is encouraged. The extra distance will provide an opportunity for evasive action, if necessary.
  • Exercise caution near large vehicles. Large vehicles – like semis – kick up a lot of water, which can further restrict visibility.
  • Be extra cautious around pedestrians and bicyclists. In addition to all the usual precautions, give bicyclists and pedestrians more room to avoid splashing them, which could result in injury.
  • Remove leaves and debris from storm drains. This helps keep all travelers safe by reducing localized flooding.
  • Respect road closure signs. High water/flood barricades are in place to protect the public. Moving and driving around road-closure devices is against the law, and carries a fine of $260. To report someone traveling around a barricade, call the Washington County Sheriff’s Office nonemergency dispatch at 503-629-0111.

To request help or report a road hazard:

  • Call 9-1-1 (life-threatening emergency).
  • Call 503-629-0111 (after hours, nonemergency).
  • Call 503-846-ROAD (846-7623) or email [email protected] (during business hours).
  • Submit an online request for nonemergency road service.
  • Call Clean Water Services at 503-547-8100 to report flooding in urban unincorporated areas (outside of cities).

Media Contact:

Melissa De Lyser, Public Affairs and Communications Manager
503-846-4963
[email protected]