The dangers of standing water on the roadway

BUTLER COUNTY, Ky.- This weekend, south-central Kentucky received between 4 to 6 inches of rain.

These few inches of rain can make a huge impact on the roadways.

Just a few inches of rain can equate to multiple feet of standing water on the road ways and low lying areas. In Butler County, multiple roads have been closed due to high water. In some places, multiple feet of water is covering roads and even surrounding homes, preventing residents from receiving help if they need it.

However, even with signs stating roads are closed, many cars tried to traverse the roads covered in water. Butler County Rescue Squad chief Brandon Keown says its incredibly dangerous to enter the water, because you never truly know what is under the waves.

“Well, you don’t truly know how deep it is or if the road’s even there. I mean, the road can be washed out, and there’s another problem,” Keown said.

While road closures can impact getting to school or work, creating delays and even frustration, it’s important to keep in mind who lives will be impacted if you do decide to ignore the traffic signs.

“If there are signs up, don’t go around them. There’s a reason why they are there is to protect you from cars stalling out, being swept away down in a deeper part of the water. And then we’ll have to come out and put our lives also in danger to help assist you,” Keown said.

Keown echoed a common phrase heard when encountering standing water on the road way: ‘”Turn around, don’t drown.”