El Paso

Flash Floods Paralyze Central El Paso Traffic, Motorists Rescued by Fire Department

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Published on September 01, 2024
Flash Floods Paralyze Central El Paso Traffic, Motorists Rescued by Fire DepartmentSource: Texas Department of Transportation

Last Friday's torrential downpour brought central El Paso to a standstill as streets flooded and vehicles were ensnared in the rising waters. The Texas Department of Transportation reported that Missouri Street and I-10 west at Cotton Street overwhelmed by floodwaters caused traffic to back up significantly, reaching as far as Copia Street, according to KFOX-TV.

Complicating the situation, the El Paso Fire Department was dispatched to rescue drivers from at least six vehicles trapped in the deluge. The hazards spurred reminders from the authorities to prioritize safety, as evidenced by the El Paso Fire Department's warning, "Turn around, don't drown," as per KVIA. Despite this, the allure of the familiar roadways, now treacherous with floodwater, continued to claim unsuspecting motorists.

In addition to the obstructions and traffic issues, the Texas Department of Transportation had to close I-10 West at the Missouri due to safety concerns. This closure intensified traffic congestions that were reported to extend to Copia St. Delays were significant as stranded cars became a common sight along the flooded streets and impeded passageways, as noted by KTSM.