Flooding rains have shut down a key stretch of State Highway 156 in Noble County, as state transportation crews moved in Wednesday to close the waterlogged roadway between US-177 and the town of Marland. Barricades are now in place to keep drivers off the submerged pavement, and with more storms lined up in the forecast, officials warn that additional highway closures across north-central Oklahoma could follow through the rest of the week.
KOKH/FOX 25 reports that the Oklahoma Department of Transportation has closed State Highway 156 between US-177 and Marland because of high water, and that the agency is continuing to issue updates on highways and interstates affected by flooding.
Where Roads Are Closed
According to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, drivers should never enter flooded roadways and must obey barricades, since ignoring those closures can put both motorists and first responders in danger. For real-time information on closures and detours, ODOT directs travelers to the Drive Oklahoma app, the statewide road-conditions map and its road-conditions hotline at 1-844-4OK-HWYS.
Storm Forecast And Risks
The National Weather Service office in Norman says more rounds of heavy rain are possible beginning Thursday, and a Flood Watch may be in effect across parts of northern and eastern Oklahoma, increasing the risk of flash flooding and new closures. Forecasters at NWS Norman note that repeated downpours can quickly overwhelm low-water crossings and rural highways, leaving them hazardous even after the rain eases, and advise drivers to treat ponded roadways as unsafe.
What Drivers Should Do
If you come across a barricade or see water covering the pavement, turn around. Just two feet of moving water can sweep away most vehicles. As noted by the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, motorists should plan alternate routes, allow extra travel time and check okroads.org, the Drive Oklahoma app or call 1-844-4OK-HWYS before heading out.
