Low-water crossings and gravel roads after rain

A Carter County low-water crossing can look harmless until rain puts moving water over the road. The safe rule is plain: if water covers the crossing, turn around. Twelve inches of rushing water can carry away most cars, and the road under the water may already be damaged.

Make the habit boring before the storm day. Know which regular routes use low crossings, watch the forecast, and give yourself a second way home when heavy rain is in the area. MoDOT’s traveler map is the place to look for state-route closures, flooding, winter road conditions, and work zones.

That map will not answer every gravel-road question. Private lanes, local roads, and low spots away from state highways can still be a local maintenance or access question after the rain stops.