Correctionville Residents Urged to Evacuate as Highway 20 Closes Due to Flooding
ICARO Media Group
In a concerning turn of events, the Iowa Department of Transportation has announced the closure of both east and westbound traffic on U.S. Highway 20 in Correctionville, Iowa. This decision comes as Woodbury County Emergency Management closely monitors the potential for flooding throughout the county.
Residents traveling west towards Correctionville are advised to take an alternate route by heading south on 59 and heading towards Ida Grove. On the other hand, those traveling east towards Correctionville on Hwy 20 will be turned away at Minnesota Ave. Authorities stress that no travel is advised on Highway 20 in Correctionville, and failure to obey the road closure signs may result in legal repercussions.
Rescue efforts, after sundown, pose extreme danger, and officials have warned that Woodbury County Sheriff and Department of Natural Resources (DNR) assets may be unable to assist individuals. With the Little Sioux River expected to crest at Correctionville around 1 a.m. on Monday, June 23, residents are strongly encouraged to consider evacuating their homes as a precautionary measure.
Residents in Correctionville have already received evacuation requests from local officials. The ongoing flooding situation has led to the closure of Highway 31 and 160th in Correctionville due to water over the road. Copeland Park has also been significantly affected by flooding.
Woodbury County Emergency Management emphasizes the importance of allowing responders to move freely in the affected area. Therefore, residents are urged to stay off the roads and follow the instructions provided by local officials.
In addition to the closures in Correctionville, the boat ramp at Larsen Park in Sioux City has been closed since Sunday morning. Sioux City officials are also prepared to build a levee in the Riverside area, although current predictions suggest it may not be necessary. Nevertheless, roads in the area will be closed if the situation escalates.
As the threat of flooding looms over Correctionville and other parts of Woodbury County, residents must prioritize their safety and adhere to the guidance from local authorities. Stay updated with the latest information and take necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of yourself and your loved ones.