Recent heavy rainfall has led to significant flash flooding in the Midwest, especially in Missouri, particularly affecting the popular camping areas around Branson and Hollister. RV parks near Lake Taneycomo were evacuated, and several area roads sustained damage.
Midwest flooding road closures
The flash flooding prompted the closure of several roads in the Branson area. While many roads have since reopened, Fall Creek Road remains closed. Additionally, floodwaters damaged Lake Shore Drive and Silver Creek Road, creating hazardous conditions for motorists.
Campground evacuations
The heavy rain, which dumped up to seven inches on the region, forced campers to evacuate from campgrounds around Lake Taneycomo. Thankfully, city leaders have reported no injuries from the flooding.
Ange Reed, a camper in the area, recounted the urgency of the situation. “It was a scary situation. Had to get out pretty fast,” she said.
Ange and her husband were attending a local rodeo when they received a call that their camping equipment was at risk. “We got a phone call that our tires were in the water. Got in there and hooked up,” Reed explained. Just as they were leaving, they noticed a washed-out road, underscoring the seriousness of the flooding.
Other concerns
Missouri isn’t the only state in the Midwest concerned with flooding. Storms that hit the midsection of the country moved toward the east with heavy rain, hail, and tornado reports.
In addition, areas in Texas continue cleanup efforts following Hurricane Beryl’s destruction. Power company officials report that 98% of customers have power restored, with the remainder of customers assured that power will be back on for them by Friday.
What to do?
If you have upcoming RV campground reservations in the Midwest, check with your campground to make sure recent heavy rains and storms have not negatively impacted the area. The same goes for points farther east, where recent storms took out power for areas in New York, prompting Governor Hochul to issue a state of emergency on Wednesday.
If you are currently camping in an RV park, stay updated on the local weather. Use your weather radio and/or tune in to local news for weather predictions, watches, and warnings.
Should officials issue an evacuation order for your campground, quickly follow their instructions.
More information
This governmental website details great information about what to do before, during, and after an evacuation order is given. Take a look at it and follow the excellent advice to stay safe!
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Thank you, Gail! 🙂 I hope that y’all are high and dry. Thanks again, have a great day, safe travels, and safe stays! 🙂