Roadways throughout the nine-county Brownwood District continue to be impacted by floodwaters, as TxDOT crews brace for more expected rainfall through the end of the week.
In Brown County, TxDOT is closely monitoring the level of the Pecan Bayou as it crosses under US 67/84/377 at the Brownwood/Early city limits. As of Wednesday morning, the water level remains just below the bridge road deck, after having fallen slightly overnight. However, additional heavy rains could result in the need to close the busy thoroughfare should water begin flowing over the roadway.
Also in Brown County, Farm to Market 2525 (Williams Ranch Road) remains closed from US 67/84/377 (Early Boulevard) to FM 2126 due to high water.
In Comanche County, FM 1476 at Proctor Lake and FM 679 south of Gorman remain closed due to high water.
In Eastland County, State Highway 16 remains closed in the Desdemona area, however, pavement repairs are underway to get the highway open as soon as possible. FM 2214 remains closed at Lake Leon due to high water.
In Stephens County, portions of FM 1852 and FM 578 remain closed due to high water.
TxDOT strongly encourages drivers to “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” and avoid driving over any roads that are covered with water. As the forecast calls for more scattered showers, flooding could continue to impact many of the state’s roadways. It is imperative drivers heed all warnings and NEVER drive around barricades or cross roads that are either closed or submerged with water.
Flash flooding is the leading cause of weather-related deaths in Texas. As little as six inches of water can float some vehicles. Drivers should always remember the following safety tips:
- Never try to walk, swim or drive through swift water.
- Stay informed about weather conditions when you are driving.
- If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- Don’t move, tamper with or drive around barriers blocking a low-water crossing.
- Disobeying a warning sign or driving around a barricade is punishable by a fine of up to $2,000, up to 180 days in jail, or both.
Many of the state’s roadways remain closed due to heavy rains over the past several days. Please visit DriveTexas.org for the latest road conditions. Drivers are also encouraged to check Facebook and Twitter (TxDOT) or Brownwood District feeds for additional updates.