Severe Flooding Closes Highways, Strands Drivers Across Southwest

Severe flooding has caused multiple road closures across several states, disrupting travel and prompting safety warnings. Interstate 80 westbound near Derby Dam is fully closed due to flooding, with motorists advised to find alternate routes. State Route 247 near Barstow and a downtown Phoenix underpass at Madison Street have also been shut down due to flash flooding. In New Mexico, N.M. 434 is closed in both directions between mileposts 5 and 8 after extensive flood damage, with detours in place and repairs expected to take several days. Imperial County experienced flash flooding on Highway 86 near the Salton Sea, stranding drivers and requiring multiple rescues, while emergency crews worked overnight to clear roads and tow vehicles. Authorities across all affected areas are urging caution, recommending that drivers avoid flooded roads and stay updated on travel conditions.