Localized flooding impacts County roads

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).

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