Rains Wash Out Section Of Route 198 In Laurel

FORT MEADE, MD — Monday's commute was a challenge for drivers in the Laurel and Fort Meade area after flood waters washed out a portion of Maryland Route 198 west of the complex. The State Highway Administration estimates 20,000 to 30,000 vehicles use this portion of the road daily.

Rising water over the weekend in the Little Patuxent River in Anne Arundel County took out an overpass on Route 198, which is closed between Baltimore-Washington Parkway (Route 295) and Route 32.

Laurel Fort Meade Road is closed in both directions between Bald Eagle Drive and Airfield Road due to the flooding, with all lanes blocked near Tipton Airport, WBAL TV reports.

The closure affects not only Anne Arundel County residents, but drivers and workers from Prince George's and Howard counties also use the road.

In the Laurel area, flood waters on the south side of town Sunday were being monitored and some neighborhoods had power outages today, city officials said.

Residents were reminded to make sure that stored material around their property is not creating areas that will flood. Mayor Craig Moe has directed DPW to clear drains and waterways, check for downed trees, and check other areas in the City for any hazards.

The Office of the Fire Marshal has been directed to check properties for any code violations, especially those that will cause flooding or ponding of water. These violations must be taken care of as quickly as possible.

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