KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- The Kansas City District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers urges everyone to never drive through flooded roadways. Please turn around, don’t drown.
In the past week the Missouri River and surrounding areas have been experiencing a serious flood event. The high waters have been brought on by rapid snowmelt and rainfall upstream in Nebraska and South Dakota region, as well as the breaching of two non-federal dams in northern Nebraska.
Flood waters are impacting county, state, and federal roads, bridges, trails, and recreation areas. Many areas have been closed, gated, or barricaded, but keep in mind that the high water is constantly changing and impacting new areas. If you are travelling near the Missouri River please double check the road conditions before your drive.
Only six inches of fast-moving water can knock over a person. It only takes 12 to 18 inches of fast-moving water to carry away most vehicles including large SUVs. If you come to a road that is covered with water turn around, you will likely not know the depth of the water or the condition of the road underneath as roadbeds may be washed out.
Whether driving or walking, any time you come to a flooded road please turn around, don't drown! Never enter standing or moving water to cross a road.
The Kansas City District is a team of dedicated professionals with a strong heritage and proven results who, in collaboration with our partners, proudly serve in the Heartland providing leadership, technical excellence, and innovative solutions to the nation's most complex problems.