In the last few weeks, floods have raged in the United States, washing away homes, damaging public buildings, and closing down highways. While other types of severe weather are relatively easy to detect, the repercussions of flooding are viable long after the flood warnings have subsided. And if a road is closed due to flooding even though it is clear and sunny, truckers who don’t anticipate the flooding, might have to back up and take detours that will cost them hours of time. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways to get flood information on the road. The following are just a few:
- Local Weather/News Web Sites
Although most drivers used to consult the radio in terms of road closings and shut downs due to floods, the Internet is making that process much easier. And if you have a wireless Internet card or a PDA or cell phone with easy access to the web, you can check out the sites while you’re driving. Doing a simple Google or
Weather.com search for traffic conditions and weather conditions in your area is the first step, but you might also want to check out the local weather and news TV station web sites. These sites are often more up to date than
Google or Weather.com results, and they’ll provide you with specific information about the road closures and alternative routes.
- Media Outlets by Telephone
Although finding a traffic broadcast or flood update warning on local radio stations is somewhat frustrating, local media outlets like TV, newspapers, and radio usually have the important information, it’s just getting it that is tough. Instead of flipping through papers and scanning stations, you can always call local TV stations, newspapers, and radio stations. Although it is not an option one thinks about often, the personnel at these stations are equipped and ready to give out important closing and detour information to callers. And with free directory assistance services like
1-800-free-411 now available, finding the phone numbers is as easy and free as the push of a button.
- Using Your People Skills
When all else fails, a great way to get flood closure and detour information is to ask for it in person. Though it may require stopping your truck or calling over the CB radio, you’ll be able to find locals or drivers who have experienced the flood or detour themselves. Though this might take more time than using the internet or telephone, it is the best way to get accurate information and directions that might save you from spending too much time detouring.
For truckers, floods can be some of the worst kinds of severe weather, as they shut down highways and result in detours, but finding out about flood information before you’re stuck isn’t as hard as it might seem. Though it might be a bit of a hassle, it will save you time and money when you don’t run into a detour that takes you miles out of your way.
