Flash flooding impacts Callaway County after heavy storms

CALLAWAY COUNTY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Callaway County Emergency Management officials said first responders handled several weather-related incidents Thursday as heavy rainfall quickly led to flooded roads and hazardous driving conditions across the county.

Officials reported water covering portions of Interstate 70 between mile markers 147 and 148. Crews also responded to reports of gravel and debris from nearby road construction washing onto the interstate, creating additional hazards for drivers.

Early Thursday morning, County Road 258 received about four inches of rain in about 30 minutes, according to emergency management officals. The intense rainfall caused flash flooding that temporarily left some residents unable to leave the area.

The flooding washed out approximately 150 feet of the roadway. Callaway County Road and Bridge crews responded, and once water levels receded, workers were able to make the road accessible to drivers again.

Emergency Management spokeswoman Michelle Kidwell said one of the more serious incidents happened in Kingdom City near the intersection of U.S. 54 and Old Highway 40.

First responders conducted a water rescue after a vehicle was found nearly submerged. One woman was safely rescued from the vehicle and was not injured.

Flooding was also reported along portions of U.S. 54 between Fulton and New Bloomfield. Officials said the amount of water in that area was unusual and created dangerous driving conditions.

Kidwell is reminding drivers to avoid traveling through flooded roadways. She said drivers cannot always tell how deep the water is or whether the road underneath has been damaged or washed away.

Officials encourage drivers to turn around and find another route if they encounter water covering the roadway.

They also advise motorists to remain alert for debris, washed-out shoulders and rapidly changing road conditions following severe weather.