DOTD crews working as weather continues to create hazardous conditions
Wednesday, April 10, 2024 at 9:29:26 AM

DOTD crews working as weather continues to create hazardous conditions


BATON ROUGE – Severe storms continue to impact the state, and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development would like to remind people to only travel if it’s absolutely necessary.

Fallen trees, limbs, and power lines, among other debris on state and local highways across Louisiana continue to create hazardous driving conditions. Flash flooding is also a possibility, as there are numerous roadways currently affected by high water. The weather forecast is calling for more severe weather throughout the day, and DOTD crews will continue to work to clear roadways and post warning signs as long as necessary.

The following scenarios have been dealt with overnight and into this morning by DOTD crews:

Construction Debris:
  • The I-20 at LA 151 overpass in Ouachita Parish. High winds caused panels and equipment to hang over traffic lanes below, and lightning further delayed clean-up efforts. Traffic was diverted onto the interstate ramps to bypass around the issue. The diversion was put into place on Tuesday night, and lifted just before 7:00 a.m. Wednesday (4/10) morning.
Fallen Trees:
  • 16 trees on various routes in Lincoln Parish. All clear at present.
  • 8 trees on various routes in Union Parish. All clear at present.
  • 40+ trees in Jackson Parish. All clear at present.
High Water:
  • High water continues to impact numerous routes across the northern portions of the state. Warning signs are put into place, and while water can recede quickly, DOTD strongly urges motorists to NEVER drive through water that is covering the roadway, no matter how shallow it may appear to be.
During inclement weather, drivers should be aware be aware of and adhere to the following tips:
  • Do not drive, unless you must.
  • Do not drive distracted.
  • Do not drive through standing water. “Turn around, don’t drown.”
  • Be aware of wind gusts.
  • Avoid driving through areas with downed power lines or other debris.
  • Never use cruise control when visibility is low or the road is wet.
  • Plan for more travel time.
  • Leave extra room between vehicles.
  • Always use headlights when windshield wipers are on. This is a law.
  • Never move or drive around any road closed signs/barricades for any reason. This is unlawful and extremely unsafe.

In the event flooding occurs, personnel will make the appropriate decisions to close roadways when safe to do so and resources are available, close moveable bridges, and suspend or reduce the ferry services for the safety of the traveling public.

Motorists are encouraged to check the status of road conditions prior to beginning their commutes by utilizing the following resources:
  • 511 Traveler Information: Travelers can also find information regarding road closures by visiting the 511 Traveler Information website at www.511la.org or by dialing 511 from their telephone and saying the route or region about which they are seeking information. You can also download the Louisiana 511 mobile app.
  • MyDOTD: Motorists can receive automatic and up-to-date information on local projects, lane and road closures, and other DOTD activity by signing up for MyDOTD here. You can also visit the DOTD website at www.dotd.la.gov.