UPDATE 6:40pm 11/7 - I-16 has been re-opened.
At 2 p.m. on 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 just a few hours, leading to fast-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 advise drivers to seek alternate routes if possible, as conditions remain unpredictable.
The impact of the heavy rains extends beyond the interstate. Bulloch County Public Works reported nearly 30 road closures across the county as of this afternoon. Bulloch County Sheriff’s Deputies, along with Public Works teams, are actively monitoring and evaluating road conditions.
While some closures may be brief, with roads reopening as water recedes, others—especially dirt roads and certain paved roads—may require extended closures and further evaluation for damage.
Noel Brown, Bulloch County Sheriff told Grice Connect that there were more roads closed than they had road closed signs. He urged citizens to use 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 the water.
He reported that they have closed Adabell Road toward Excelsior and Adablee Road toward Kennedy bridge road, because of concern of the water level moving under the bridges.
Bulloch County EMA is working to keep an updated list of road closures.
Grice Connect will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates as conditions change and as westbound I-16 reopens.
