A combination of tropical storms, wildfires, and flooding has forced Texas and New Mexico to declare states of emergency while a section of Interstate 29 in South Dakota has been shut down.
Texas Declaration
Tropical Storm Alberto is posing a severe threat to nearly 50 counties in Texas, leading to an emergency order that will remain in effect until July 4. KIII-TV in Corpus Christi highlighted that 45 tons of debris were cleared from the Coastal Bend region within a single day. To facilitate relief efforts, the state has temporarily suspended regulations regarding the hours of service for truck drivers operating commercial vehicles across all interstates, state, and local county roads. This applies to both intrastate and interstate commerce, and drivers are not required to carry a copy of the emergency declaration with them.
New Mexico Emergency
In New Mexico, the South Fork and Salt Fires in the south-central part of the state are expected to be fully contained by July 15, reports WHDH-TV. Tragically, the fires have resulted in two deaths and the loss of hundreds of homes, with arson being suspected as the cause. The FBI has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information that leads to those responsible. Truck drivers involved in supporting firefighting efforts in Lincoln and Otero counties are exempt from Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations (Title 49, CFR, Part 395.3 and 395.5) during this emergency. The latest updates are available on the New Mexico Fire Information website.
South Dakota Flood
The South Dakota Department of Transportation has closed Interstate 29 from Exit 2 to Exit 9 as of Sunday, June 23, due to the imminent cresting of the Big Sioux River. This closure was extended to Exit 26 on Monday, June 24. According to the state DOT, there are plans to construct a berm or levee across both lanes at Exit 4 to connect with an existing levee on the east side of North Sioux City. For the most current traffic maps and updates, residents are encouraged to check online resources.
Source: Land Line
