CITY OF SALISBURY ADVISES DRIVERS TO PLAN ROUTES THAT AVOID FLOODING ON ROUTE 13

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December 20, 2023

Salisbury, Maryland - Due to the massive rainfall over the weekend, the Route 13 corridor in Salisbury - in the area of the Priscilla Street and Northwood Drive intersections - continues to remain flooded and impassable. The City of Salisbury is monitoring the situation, but the flooding is expected to continue over the next few days, so the road will remain closed until the area is safe.

We advise that drivers plan an alternate route to their destination avoiding the closed section of the road as well as other low-lying areas. Those traveling South should consider using Gordy Road as an alternate path, and if heading North, then consider Route 50. Be aware some of the posted detour routes are also experiencing high water.

During this excessive flooding, the tides affect the depth of the water even this far inland. The water's depth changed throughout the day on Dec. 19 and will continue to do so. In addition, the entire watershed received the same rainfall, so as any water moves out of the area, more moves in. There is currently nowhere for the water to go and time is the only solution.

Most importantly, please do not attempt to cross high water. Just six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling. According to the National Weather Service, water may be deeper than it appears and can hide hazards such as sharp objects, washed-out road surfaces, electrical wires, chemicals, etc. A vehicle caught in swiftly moving water can be swept away in seconds. Twelve inches of water can float a car or small SUV and 18 inches of water can carry away large vehicles.