Motorists Warned To Exercise Caution on Flooded Roads

Flooded roads are reported throughout Allegheny County this morning as heavy rains combined with snow melt to create problems.

"PennDOT reminds motorists that there is a chance of hydroplaning on wet roads and urges drivers to never attempt to drive through a flooded area of roadway or across downed power lines and trees," said PennDOT Press Officer Jim Struzzi in a statement.

PennDOT encourages drivers to report any issues to 1-800-FIX-ROAD.

"Water can be deeper than it appears, and water levels can rise very quickly. Most cars will float dangerously for at least a short while. A car can be buoyed by floodwaters and then swept downstream during a flood," Struzzi said in his press release.

"Floodwaters also can erode roadways, and a missing section of road even a missing bridge, will not be visible with water running over the area," Struzzi continued.

"Wade through floodwaters only if the water is not flowing rapidly and only in water no higher than six inches. If your car stalls in floodwater, get out quickly and move to higher ground. The floodwaters may still be rising, and the car could be swept away at any moment."

 PennDOT also reminded motorists that traffic signals might be inoperative in areas where there are power failures. 

"The rule of the road requires motorists to react to an inoperative signal as they would to a four-way stop. That is, come to a complete stop and yield the right-of-way to the motorist on the right," said Struzzi.   

Motorists can log on to 511pa.com or call 511 from any phone to check traffic conditions on major roadways before traveling.