JACKSON, MS — Following heavy rainfall across the central part of the state, Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) first responders were on the scene to ensure Mississippi highways were safe and open for travel.

“MDOT maintenance forces worked through the night to safely reopen a portion of State Route 16 after a damaged culvert forced its closure in Leake County,” said Melinda McGrath, PE, MDOT Executive Director. “With more severe weather on the way, I am proud to have such dedicated district crews serving Mississippi motorists.”

The damaged culvert was located on SR 16 one mile east of the Yockanookany River in Leake County. After staging message boards to alert motorists of the closure, crews were able to safely repair the culvert.

Hours later, SR 16 flooded between East Franklin Street and Midway Road in Leake County, resulting in a complete shutdown in both directions. The roadway remains closed as crews monitor conditions and assess damage.

Once the waters recede, work such as debris removal, cross-drain inspections and other necessary repairs must take place before crews safely open a roadway that has been flooded. Saturated pavements and embankments will also need sufficient time for the water to properly drain, allowing it to hold the necessary amount of traffic.

In Warren County, U.S. Highway 80 saw damage at Mount Alban Road. Heavy rainfall resulted in the loss of a significant portion of the soil supporting the asphalt under a section of Highway 80, forcing crews to shutdown both directions of Highway 80.

“MDOT crews will continue to monitor the potential for flooding to ensure the safety of motorists on our state highways,” McGrath said. “I ask for your patience to allow our crews to properly evaluate the damage to both Highway 80 and SR 16.”