Area Flood Warnings Mean Trouble For Commuters

Accuweather.com predicts rain for the Pottstown area for the rest of the week and the National Weather Service issued a local flood watch through noon tomorrow.

Due to the forecast, the Pennsylvania Dept. of Transportation reminds drivers to avoid flooded roads and barricades placed by emergency responders.

Drivers should also slow down, allow extra travel time and expect delays.

"Motorists should never attempt to drive over flooded roadways," said PennDOT Deputy Secretary for Highway Administration Scott Christie. "Flood waters are usually much deeper than they appear. Too often, emergency responders are asked to risk their own lives to pull stranded motorists to safety."

Flood waters resulting from Hurricane Irene claimed the life of an East Norriton woman who was driving to work in the middle of the night Aug. 28. Authorities found 64-year-old Patricia O’Neill's body nearly a half mile from her car along the banks of the Wissahickon Creek.

According to a release issued by the department, PennDOT crews spent the day clearing storm drains and preparing chainsaws, loaders, message boards and barricades in anticipation of roads and bridges being closed due to flooding.

When it's raining or when roads are wet, PennDOT advises drivers to reduce their speed, be certain to turn on their headlights and increase the following distance between vehicles.

State law requires headlights to be turned on any time a vehicle's wipers are used.

Because heavy rains can quickly flood roadways and cause lengthy travel delays, motorists should pack an emergency kit for their vehicles similar to winter emergency kits. A basic kit should include the following:

Nonperishable food

Water

A blanket

Extra clothing

When preparing an emergency kit, motorists should take into account special needs of some passengers such as baby food, pet supplies or medications and pack accordingly.

Residents can check road conditions on more than 2,900 miles of state roads by calling 511 or by visiting www.511PA.com.

511PA, which is free and available 24 hours a day, provides traffic delay warnings, weather forecasts, average traffic speeds on urban interstates and access to more than 500 traffic cameras.