St. Cloud Closes Roads Under Highway 23 Bridge

The city has closed 9th and 10th Avenues due to flooding caused by recent rainfall.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Emergency Response

Bold flat-color editorial illustration depicting a massive concrete bridge span above standing water, evoking urban infrastructure flood concerns. — St. Cloud city officials have closed 9th and 10th Avenues under the Highway 23 Bridge following heavy flooding after recent rainfall. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Officials in St. Cloud have closed 9th Avenue and 10th Avenue beneath the Highway 23 Bridge following heavy rain. The city has established an alternate route for traffic heading to the hospital.

Why it matters

These closures prevent motorists from attempting to traverse floodwater, which can cause vehicles to stall or lose control. Keeping clear of standing water is essential to avoiding life-threatening incidents during flash flood events.

Just six inches of water reaches the bottom of most passenger cars, creating a hazard for drivers. One foot of water is sufficient to float many vehicles, posing a severe risk for anyone attempting to cross.

The players

City of St. Cloud

The local municipal government responsible for managing infrastructure and public safety.

The details

City crews have placed marked road closure signs to divert traffic away from the flooded underpasses. A designated alternate route for vehicles traveling to the hospital is now in effect.

October 28, 2026: The city reported the road closures due to flooding.

Seasonal Patterns

The city's decision to proactively close submerged roads follows the safety protocols established by the National Weather Service's Turn Around Don't Drown campaign. Such closures help align local traffic management with historical standards for flood mitigation and public safety.

Drivers should follow all posted signage and use the marked alternate route to reach the hospital. Never attempt to drive through flooded roadways, as even shallow water can cause vehicles to float or stall.

The takeaway

Recognizing that just one foot of water can float a vehicle is key to staying safe during local weather events. Residents should plan for longer travel times when navigating around closed underpasses.