Attention, drivers! If you’re planning on heading out on I-69 anytime soon, you might want to rethink your route. The heavy rain we’ve been getting has caused serious flooding along parts of the highway, especially around Anderson, Fishers, and Fort Wayne. This means road closures in several areas, and it’s causing major headaches for travelers. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid being stuck in traffic or caught in a dangerous situation.
What’s Going On:
After days of non-stop rain, sections of I-69 are now underwater. Floodwaters have been rising quickly, forcing closures, particularly between Indianapolis and the northern parts of the state. It’s not just a minor inconvenience—these are major highway sections that drivers depend on. And if things don’t improve soon, we might see even more road closures. So, if you were planning on traveling along I-69 in the next 24 hours, it’s time to check your route.
This situation is bad enough that staying informed is absolutely essential if you want to avoid getting caught in the mess.
How It’s Affecting Travel:
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Road Closures & Detours: Multiple stretches of I-69 are closed due to rising water, and authorities have set up detours around the affected areas. But keep in mind, these detours could add a lot of time to your trip. It’s the kind of thing where it’s better to leave early than to end up stuck in traffic.
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Traffic Jams: If you’re near the Anderson, Fishers, or Fort Wayne areas, you can expect some serious traffic delays. The detours are going to back up quickly as drivers scramble to find alternative routes. So, patience is key here—your normal travel time could easily be doubled.
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Flash Flood Risk: Even if you’re not near I-69, the threat of flash flooding still looms. We could see even more water rising unexpectedly, which means other roads could become dangerous without warning. Don’t try to drive through flooded roads—even a few inches of water can be enough to make your car lose control.
How to Stay Safe:
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Avoid I-69 if You Can: If I-69 is part of your route, now’s a good time to rethink your plans. Try to use secondary roads instead. Google Maps, Waze, and other apps are perfect for finding alternative routes, so use them to steer clear of trouble spots.
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Follow Detours Carefully: If you absolutely have to use I-69, make sure you’re paying attention to detour signs. But don’t be surprised if the detours add extra time to your trip—be prepared for slower-than-usual travel.
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Stay Updated: Flooding situations can change fast, so keep an eye on real-time traffic apps and local news for the latest updates. Check for road closures, or look out for new detours in your area. Being informed is half the battle.
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Don’t Risk It with Flooded Roads: If you come across standing water on the road, remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown. It might seem safe to drive through, but just a few inches of water can cause your car to lose traction. Trust your instincts and turn around to find another route.
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Prepare for Delays: If you’re headed into an area with detours or road closures, make sure you have some snacks, water, and a charged phone. The last thing you want is to be stuck with nothing while waiting for traffic to clear. Stay comfortable, stay safe.
Before You Head Out:
Check your route before you leave. If I-69 is part of your drive, it’s better to know if it’s closed ahead of time. Apps like Google Maps and Waze are a lifesaver right now, so make sure to use them to see if detours or new closures have popped up. You don’t want to get halfway there only to find out the road’s been closed last minute.
Also, if you’re near Anderson, Fishers, or Fort Wayne, steer clear of I-69 if you can. It’s one of the hardest-hit areas, and the risk of getting stuck or caught in rising waters is real.
We’re facing some serious flooding on I-69 right now, and it’s not something you want to ignore if you’re planning to travel. Roads are being closed, detours are slow, and flash flooding could happen at any moment. Stay informed, take your time, and avoid flooded roads—that’s the best way to keep yourself and others safe.
