Raging runoff turned a familiar low spot in Kirby into a churning mess Friday afternoon, forcing city officials to shut down the Gibbs Sprawl Road underpass at FM 78 after fast-moving water made the crossing too risky for drivers.
Photos shared by the City of Kirby show water blasting through the underpass with enough force to mimic whitewater rapids, with barricades already in place across the roadway. Officials urged motorists to steer clear of the crossing and stick to alternate routes while crews kept an eye on conditions.
City alert and photos
In a post on the City of Kirby's Facebook page, officials tagged the situation as a "Road Closure Alert" and said the Gibbs Sprawl underpass "is unsafe for travel" because of high water. The city warned motorists, "do not attempt to drive through this area," and asked drivers to use other routes until further notice while crews continue to assess the scene.
Why flooded underpasses are dangerous
Federal weather and safety agencies stress that even water that looks shallow can hide washed-out pavement, strong currents, or debris that can knock a vehicle off course. That is the logic behind the National Weather Service campaign "Turn Around, Don't Drown," which urges drivers to avoid any flooded roadway instead of trying to guess whether it is safe.
The agency notes that most flood-related deaths happen when people attempt to drive through water-covered streets or low-water crossings, and that barricades and closed roads are put in place to protect both drivers and emergency responders. National Weather Service
Local context: recurring trouble spots
The Gibbs Sprawl and FM 78 stretch is no stranger to headaches, with recurring drainage and pavement problems that have led to frustrated commuters and periodic short-term detours for maintenance work. Hoodline has previously highlighted nearby trouble spots, including an Ackerman Road dip that underscored confusion between local governments over who is responsible for repairs. The city's own notices have also tracked a steady stream of detours and traffic pattern shifts along this corridor. City of Kirby public notices
What drivers should do
If you are driving in the area, expect delays and plan a route that skips the Gibbs Sprawl underpass entirely, following all barricades and traffic-control signs along the way. Treat any flooded roadway as closed, head for higher ground if water starts to rise around you, and call 911 for emergencies. For the latest on when the road might reopen, check official city channels as crews continue to evaluate conditions.
