Key Takeaways
- The Naches Fire Department has released photos showing significant damage to Highway 12 caused by floodwaters from the Naches River.
- Over 300 feet of pavement and guardrail were washed away by the floodwaters.
- The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has begun repair work, which includes constructing a buttress to block the river, rebuilding the embankment, and backfilling the highway with gravel.
- A detour is in place, and drivers are advised to expect slow traffic.
- The contractor is working seven days a week to complete the repairs, with an expected completion date of early January.
Introduction to the Naches River Flood
The recent flooding in the Naches River area has caused significant damage to Highway 12, with photos released by the Naches Fire Department revealing the extent of the destruction. The floodwaters rose rapidly, resulting in the closure of the road last week, and by Thursday, over 300 feet of pavement and guardrail had been washed away. This has left drivers with no choice but to use a detour in the Naches area until repairs are completed. The detour is expected to be in place for several weeks, and drivers are advised to expect slow traffic due to the increased volume of vehicles using the alternative route.
Repair Work Underway
The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has confirmed that repair work has begun on Highway 12. The contractor hired to complete the repairs is working seven days a week to reopen the road as soon as possible. The repair work involves several key steps, including constructing a buttress to block the river, rebuilding the embankment, and backfilling the highway with gravel. This will not only restore the road to its original condition but also provide additional protection against future flood events. The WSDOT has stated that the completion of the repairs is expected by early January, although this date may be subject to change depending on the progress of the work and any unforeseen challenges that may arise.
Impact on Drivers
The closure of Highway 12 has had a significant impact on drivers in the area, with many being forced to use the detour to reach their destinations. The detour is expected to be in place for several weeks, and drivers are advised to expect slow traffic due to the increased volume of vehicles using the alternative route. This may cause frustration and inconvenience for drivers, particularly those who use the road regularly. However, the WSDOT is working to complete the repairs as quickly as possible, and the detour is necessary to ensure the safety of drivers until the road is restored to its original condition.
Conclusion and Next Steps
In conclusion, the flooding in the Naches River area has caused significant damage to Highway 12, resulting in the closure of the road and the implementation of a detour. The WSDOT has begun repair work, which includes constructing a buttress to block the river, rebuilding the embankment, and backfilling the highway with gravel. The contractor is working seven days a week to complete the repairs, with an expected completion date of early January. Drivers are advised to expect slow traffic on the detour and to plan their journeys accordingly. The WSDOT will continue to work to complete the repairs as quickly as possible, and the road is expected to be reopened in the coming weeks.