By admin 
TUCSON, Ariz. (13 News) – Many roads closed overnight Wednesday into Thursday morning due to flooding and debris have since reopened across Pima County, but some closures remain in place as fast-moving water and mud continue to pose hazards to drivers and commuters.
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Melissa Cancio with the Pima County Department of Transportation said road closures during flooding are in place for driver safety.
“Don’t just go through there because you think, hey, I drive through this road every single time, it should be safe. You don’t know what’s underneath,” Cancio said.
She said moving water can also damage vehicles.
“It’ll cause damage to your vehicle. Of course it’s not safe for you, you’re in a vehicle, you don’t know how swift that water is running,” Cancio said.
Cancio said the department does not reopen roads simply because water levels drop. Workers inspect for washed-out pavement, erosion, downed trees, and other hazards before allowing traffic to return.
“We just don’t want to reopen the roads because the water’s gone down, we inspect for damage such as washed out pavement, erosion, down trees, and other hazards that could put the traveling public at risk,” Cancio said.
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When roads do reopen, the department posts signs directing drivers to proceed with caution, as residual mud and dirt on the roadway can pose a hazard.
Thursday’s response is further complicated by additional storms and rain expected later in the day, requiring workers to simultaneously address existing damage and prepare for new potential impacts.
“We know the trouble spots, we cleared debris from drainage structures where it’s possible, we’ve staged barricades and traffic control devices in our right of way and all the equipment has been inspected, fueled up and we have staff ready to go if the conditions do worsen later on this afternoon,” Cancio said.
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