Submitted by

Dee Loflin, SMT Manager/Writer

Rolla, Missouri - Flooding has closed Interstate 44 at mile marker 172 near the city of Jerome. Traffic backups are now occurring near Rolla, Mo., as traffic detours to two-lane highways.

MoDOT urges motor carriers and other travelers to exit the interstate at the earliest, convenient alternate route. This is especially important for commercial motor vehicle traffic.

Major routes that can serve as alternates include Interstate 70, US 50 and US 60.

Please do not plan to travel to central Missouri and detour from there. The earlier travelers can find an alternate, the better.

U.S. 63 is also closed in both directions, south of Vienna in Maries County.

MoDOT expects I-44 and US 63 to remain closed for more than six hours. When the water recedes, MoDOT will inspect pavement and bridges for safety before opening highways for public use.

Visit http://www.modot.org/ to find the MoDOT Traveler Information Map and information on obtaining the free smartphone app or call 1-888-ASK MoDOT (888-275-6636) for up-to-date information.