Highway Crews Cleaning Up Following Storms

EAST TEXAS — State highway department crews are asking the public to avoid travel in the Henderson area in Rusk County after thunderstorms and a possible tornado struck Monday evening, littering roadways with trees and debris. Local crews as well as additional manpower and equipment dispatched to the area are currently working to clear roadways including U.S. Highway 79 and State Highway 43. Crews were then due to move into the city of Henderson to assist with tree removal and cleanup.

TxDOT reminds drivers to take extra precautions by following these tips:
*If water is covering a road, don’t try to cross. As little as six inches of water can float some vehicles.
*It is illegal to remove barricades blocking lower water crossings. Penalties can range from $200 to $1,000 and/or two years in jail.
*Never try to walk, swim or drive through swift water.
*If your vehicle stalls in deep water, leave it and move to higher ground if you can do so safely.
* Turn around; don’t drown.