Know the hidden dangers of a flooded roadway

Oct. 8, 2026

By Cynthia Vaquera

AUSTIN — Even if it looks passable, there’s no reason to drive around a barricade.

Most flood-related deaths in Texas happen in vehicles, often because motorists attempt to drive through water-covered roadways. That’s because many people underestimate the power of water or don’t know of the many unseen dangers underwater.

“If there's a barricade blocking a road, there's a reason that barricade is there. Don't go around it,” TxDOT Emergency Management Coordinator Matthew Heinze said. “If there's not a barricade there, our crews may not have been able to make it out there in time. Use extreme caution.”

From the driver’s seat, the road may look just like it did yesterday. The pavement is the same, the water level seems low, but the “road closed” sign is the only thing that’s different. And the decision you make in the next few seconds could save your life.

“Texas has many low-water crossings,” Heinze said. “The key is that motorist should stay weather aware and watch for water on the road.”

What you can’t see below the water

Behind a road closure, there may be damage that you can’t see from behind the wheel, such as:

• Damaged bridges and roads. Water can wash away the road or bridge and even if the surface looks safe, a vehicle driving over it could cause further damage.
• Debris. Branches, metal scraps and other objects carried by the current that are hidden underwater could damage your vehicle.
• Currents that are stronger than they appear. Just a few inches of moving water can cause a vehicle to lose control and be swept away by the current.
• Open storm drains and gutters. Covers can be swept away by the current, leaving holes that are completely hidden by the water.
• Fallen power lines. A power line in or near the water can electrify the area without anyone noticing.

Even if there is no visible damage to a road or bridge, a team of engineers may still need to inspect the structure to determine whether it’s safe for traffic.

“Water is very powerful and can cause damage that may not be easily seen,” Heinze said. “The water may only look a few inches deep, but the road or bridge could be washed out. In every flood event TxDOT crews will respond to do road and bridge assessments to ensure there is no damage that could cause a safety hazard.”

When the warning is ignored

Unfortunately, drivers ignore the risks and rescue crews have to respond after someone drives into water. That’s why it’s extremely important for everyone to remember the phrase, “Turn around don’t drown.”

“When a water rescue is necessary it jeopardizes many lives, those in the vehicle, and the first responders coming to the rescue,” Heinze said. “There can also be a financial cost to driver that drive around barricades.”

Texas state law requires drivers to comply with barriers blocking low-water crossings or flooded roadways or face a fine of up to $2,000 and 180 days in jail. Tampering with or removing warning signs or barricades can lead to a fine of up to $1,000 and up to two years in jail.

Road closures and alternate routes are posted in real time on DriveTexas.org. Before driving, be sure to check the site and find an alternate route if the road you plan to take is closed.