Heavy rains and historic flooding may force Iowa transportation officials to shut down one of the nation’s busiest trucking corridors.
The Cedar River in eastern Iowa has reached its highest level since the damaging 2008 flood that killed one and caused $10 billion in damages — and with the river at 19.4 feet, dangerous flooding could occur at any time. At the request of the city, hundreds of Cedar Rapids residents have evacuated.
The latest #flood update from Cedar Rapids, #Iowa. #IAwx pic.twitter.com/VStLEJePPm
— Iowa Storm Chasing (@IAStormChasing) September 26, 2016
The Iowa Department of Transportation says that they are closely monitoring conditions on I-80 approximately 20 miles east of Iowa City in preparation to close for flooding. During the 2008 flood, I-80 was shut down in both directions, forcing motorists and truckers to detour onto U.S. Highway 30.
The National Weather Service predicts that the Cedar River will crest at 23 feet at 1 p.m. on Tuesday.
The National Guard has been deployed to assist in flood rescues and to man traffic checkpoints.
DOT Director Paul Trombone predicted that he would have better information on the possible I-80 closure first thing on Wednesday.
If you’re traveling in an area impacted by flooding, make sure you check the latest road closures before you head out.
View from 2nd Avenue bridge in downtown as Cedar River about 2-3 feet below the bottom of the bridge #Flood2016 #iawx pic.twitter.com/5hOEJOCBp2
— Connor Morgan – KGAN (@CMorganCBS2) September 26, 2016
Sources:
The Des Moines Register
ABC News
Fox News