Contacts
- Diane Beck
320-214-6421
Location
Minnesota Department of Transportation
2505 Transportation Road
Willmar, MN 56201
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FLOODING UPDATE: Hwy 14 between Tyler and Florence in Southwestern Minnesota closed due to flooding
WILLMAR, Minn. – (10:45 p.m.) Highway 14 between Tyler and Florence in Southwestern Minnesota is closed due to flooding caused by the spring melt.
Motorists to use an alternate route. Highway 14 between Tyler and Florence will be closed until the high water recedes.Flooding is difficult to predict and roads may be closed or restricted without warning.
Motorists are advised to check road conditions at http://www.511mn.org/ in advance of travel.
Every flood is dangerous to motorists. If you must travel in southwestern Minnesota, follow these safe driving practices recommend by the Federal Emergency Management Agency:
Expect the unexpected – flash floods can occur anytime, anywhere.
Flooding can knock out bridges, undercut highways and clog roads with mudslides and debris.
Mn/DOT will identify which roads are closed and warn motorists of potential pavement break up or soft shoulders that could give way.
Drivers are warned not to drive around barricades and to check the state's traveler information website, www.511mn.org, or call 5-1-1 for road conditions, closures and alternate routes.
Do not drive into flooded areas.
- If floodwaters rise around your car, abandon the car and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
- Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars, causing loss of control and possible stalling.
- A foot of water will float many vehicles.
- Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles and pick-ups.
When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.
For updated information, call 511 or click on www.511mn.org when traveling in any area of the state where potential flooding conditions exist. For weather and flood warnings, go to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website http://www.noaawatch.gov/floods.php or listen to NOAA weather radio or local radio stations.
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