Staff Reports
Mother Nature is not happy about something as icy conditions turned into flooding this week.
Marion County residents were just starting to regroup from five days of ice, sleet, and snow accompanied by lows in the 20s and highs in the 30s when the weather turned again.
This week saw two days of temperatures in the 50s and near 60s, before it started raining.
Following the rain, Big Cypress is rising with Black Cypress near Jefferson expected to crest today (Friday) at 17ft in the minor flooding stage. Residents and property owners along the bayous are encouraged to remove items from piers and docks, and secure any floating items.
State and County roads have taken a beating as many large potholes have formed, impeding traffic and causing vehicle damage. Permanent repairs cannot be begun until the rain has stopped and the roads have dried.
Texas Hwy 49 West towards Avinger was a “minefield” of potholes, with TxDOT diverting traffic at one point while they implemented temporary repairs.
Numerous vehicles struck potholes causing tire, wheel, and other vehicle issues. TxDOT said they have a contractor on standby to being repairs as soon as the roads dried. They were also working to mark and temporarily fill the worst of the potholes during the rain.
Rainfall was expected to be in the 3-5 inches range total for the week by Friday morning.
County officials reminded everyone to drive around flooded areas and not try to go through them as high water could hide hazards or swiftly moving water.