Flooding forces a temporary closure of I-16 westbound in Bulloch County

On By Littum

UPDATE 6:40 PM 11/7 – I-16 has been reopened. Bulloch County is battling widespread flooding after heavy rain swept through the area overnight, causing road closures and detours across the region. Westbound I-16 at mile marker 113 has been temporarily closed due to high water, with local officials advising drivers to find alternate routes.

UPDATE 6:40 PM 11/7 – I-16 has been reopened.

2:00 p.m. Thursday, November 7, 2024, the Georgia State Patrol (GSP) and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) closed westbound I-16 at mile marker 113 in Bulloch County due to severe flooding.

The recent storms brought heavy rainfall to the area overnight, with some parts of Bulloch County recording over eight inches of rain. Most of this rainfall fell within hours, leading to rapidly rising waters and widespread flooding.

A detour is now in place for drivers on I-16 westbound. Motorists are directed to exit at Highway 301 (exit 116), follow Highway 46, then Pulaski Excelsior Road and re-enter the interstate at exit 111. However, officials are advising motorists to seek alternate routes if possible as conditions remain are unpredictable.

The impact of the heavy rain extends beyond the interstate. Bulloch County Public Works reported nearly 30 road closures throughout the county this afternoon. Bulloch County Sheriff’s deputies along with public works crews are actively monitoring and evaluating road conditions.

While some closures may be brief, with roads reopening as the water recedes, others — particularly dirt roads and certain paved roads — may require extended closures and further assessment for damage.

Noel Brown, Sheriff of Bulloch County told Grice Connect that there were more roads closed than they had road closed signs. He urged citizens to exercise extreme caution when traveling around the county. If they come to a road covered with water, turn around and do not cross. It is difficult to see the condition of the road under water.

He reported that they have closed Adabell Road toward Excelsior and Adablee Road toward Kennedy Bridge Road, due to concerns about water levels moving under the bridges.

Bulloch County EMA working to keep an updated list of road closures.

Grice Connect will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as conditions change and when westbound I-16 reopens.