MODOT Flooding Update: Allow extra travel time during Monday morning commute

(From MODOT)

MoDOT Flooding Update:

Drivers Should Allow Extra Travel Time During Their Monday Morning Commute

MoDOT, Southwest District – High water will cause delays and detours for drivers making their way to work or school on Monday morning, May 1, due to high water over area roadways, the Missouri Department of Transportation said. I-44 remains closed east of Lebanon at Mile Marker 144 and in spots between Rolla and Waynesville west of Mile Marker 186. Interstate 44 traffic is being routed via Route 63 south from Rolla to Route 60 west to Springfield to Route 360 west to I-44 and vice versa. Drivers who need to travel across Missouri are highly encouraged to use Interstate 70 to avoid the closings on I-44.  U.S. Route 60 between Springfield and Rogersville will remain reduced to one lane in each direction and moved to the eastbound side of the highway.  Flood waters have closed the westbound lanes. Route 60 will see increased traffic due to the issues on I-44 between Lebanon and Rolla.  This will increase the likelihood of delays on this stretch of Route 60. Drivers are urged to take turns merging into the open lanes of Route 60 and be prepared for long delays especially during morning and afternoon rush hours.  Several state roads have reopened. However, many roads in southwest Missouri remain closed as MoDOT crews wait for water to recede. Crews will remove debris and then inspect for damage before opening the roads.   Roads will be reopened just as soon as they are deemed to be safe for travel.  In the meantime, drivers are urged to AVOID DRIVING AROUND BARRICADED ROADS until MoDOT crews open the road. The closings are a matter of public safety.  MoDOT’s Traveler Information Map is being updated ‘round the clock and is the best source for the latest updates on road closings across Missouri and especially in southwest Missouri.