Weekend weather could cause dangerous roads, impact events
FROM STAFF REPORTS
BURNET — With the possibility of heavy rains and bad weather crossing the Highland Lakes over the weekend, officials are reminding people to drive carefully and not take any chances.
The National Weather Service has even issued a flash flood watch through Oct. 25.
Burnet County Sheriff’s Office officials are reminding people the Highland Lakes area is prone to flash flooding. This is particularly true at the number of low-water crossings around the area.
Motorists should not drive through low-water crossings if they become flooded, BCSO officials stated. This is true even if there are no barriers in place blocking the low-water crossings.
If drivers do come across a barricade, they should not drive around them and attempt to go through the flooded area.
Swift-moving water can be deceiving, and it can be difficult to judge the depth or whether the road has become washed out — especially at night. Motorists are urged to avoid driving over a flooded low-water crossing.
If a person does get trapped in his or her vehicle in flooded areas and is in danger, he or she should call 9-1-1 for assistance. In non-emergency situations, drivers can call 1-800-525-5555, the Texas Department of Public Safety’s stranded motorist hotline. The number is printed on the back of all Texas driver’s licenses and ID cards.
This is for non-emergency assistance, such has being stranded with car problems, hazardous road conditions, debris in the roadway and similar things. But, officials said, free towing or free fuel vouchers are not provided through the hotline.
Along with staying out of flooded areas and off roads, people should monitor the weather.
“Residents should monitor the weather, rainfall and driving conditions,” Burnet County Sheriff W.T. Smith said. “Utilize social media, television, radio and weather apps for current and changing weather conditions.”
The possibility of bad weather has altered some weekend activities already. The Offroad Zomboree benefitting CASA for the Highland Lakes Area on Oct. 23-25 has been postponed.
Officials with the Llano Pumpkin Carving Contest and Glow said the show will go on Oct. 24 as planned, but if the rain forces it to move inside, they’ll take it to the Llano Fine Arts Guild & Gallery, 503 Bessemer Ave. in Llano. Contest officials said they’ll probably make a decision on Saturday. Check the Llano Pumpkin Carving Contest’s Facebook page for updates.
Burnet Consolidated Independent School District officials are urging people driving to the volleyball game at Salado and the football game at Gatesville to leave a bit earlier and drive safely.
If lightning is detected around the Gatesville area, game officials will make an announcement over the stadium loud speaker about any delay. Officials recommend fans take shelter in their cars and not remain in the stands during the delay.
editor@thepicayune.com