The Richardson Highway is closed from Milepost 218 to 234 due to flash flooding at Ruby Creek and One Mile Creek.
This is a new closure since the washout at Bear Creak occurred earlier this week. Repair times are unknown due to weather conditions, but more details will be available after Department of Transportation crews have assessed the area.
For Valdez travel, detour around this closure by using the Tok Cutoff and the Alaska Highway. Visit 511.alaska.gov for the latest road updates.
Meanwhile, the highway is opened at Bear Creek, which washed out earlier this week. There is a pilot car helping drivers manage the detour around the washout.
DOT update, 10:45 a.m. Tuesday: Richardson Highway remains closed from MP 218 to MP 234 due to road washouts from flash flooding. We anticipate this closure to continue for another 24 hours, but we will know more soon.
Damage: Crews are currently establishing a list of the multiple damage areas in need of repairs, but for now we know is there is damage at Boulder Creek, Lower Suzy Q Creek, Upper Suzy Q, Falls Creek, Gunnysack Creek, and Darling Creek. Bear Creek, Ruby Creek and One Mile Creek are experiencing very high waters with a forecast of 80% showers over the next few days. There are a few areas where mudslides are also a concern.
Fiber optics have been damaged in the area due to the washouts.
DOT has crews on the north and south ends of the closure assessing damaged and washed out areas. DOT is planning to bring additional support to make repairs once crews have established all the damage and identified the resources needed.
DOT will continue to update 511 and local message boards in the areas and also share on social media Tuesday.
For Valdez travel, detour around this closure by using the Tok Cutoff and the Alaska Highway. Visit 511.alaska.gov for the latest road updates and watch for message boards in the area.
Video: By DOT&PF staff of Gunnysack Creek