El Paso Closed Scenic Drive After Roadway Storm Damage
Heavy rain and thunderstorms caused a significant roadway collapse, prompting the indefinite closure of the stretch.
Updated on Sept. 24, 2026 in Severe Weather
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The El Paso Police Department has closed the two-mile stretch of Scenic Drive indefinitely following severe storm damage. Heavy rainfall created a large hole in the ground, and additional storm impacts included an awning collapse at El Paso Airport.
Why it matters
The closure is a necessary measure to ensure public safety as hazardous conditions persist across the area. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for El Paso County while residents prepare for further weather-related disruptions.
Officials shuttered a two-mile section of Scenic Drive, which sits at an elevation of 4,000 feet, due to hazardous conditions. The closure follows heavy rain that resulted in a large hole in the road surface.
The players
El Paso Police Department
This agency is responsible for enforcing the indefinite road closure and managing public safety protocols during the storm event.
El Paso Airport
The facility experienced structural damage when an outside awning collapsed during the severe weather event.
The details
Storms and heavy rain swept through the region on Wednesday, causing widespread flooding and structural damage. The El Paso Police Department is maintaining the closure in both directions to protect drivers from the compromised roadway.
Timeline
Wednesday, September 23, 2026: Storms caused roadway damage and an awning collapse.
Thursday night, September 24, 2026: Another round of thunderstorms is expected.
Friday morning, September 25, 2026: The current Flash Flood Watch is set to expire.
Friday afternoon, September 25, 2026: Scattered storms are forecast east of the Rio Grande.
Seasonal Patterns
This weather event follows the established safety guidelines set by the National Weather Service's Flash Flood Watch protocols for El Paso County. The region remains subject to high-intensity convective activity typical of the current seasonal shift.
Commuters must avoid the closed two-mile stretch of Scenic Drive and seek alternate routes until further notice. Residents should monitor local weather updates closely and adhere to all safety warnings issued under the active Flash Flood Watch.
The takeaway
Drivers are encouraged to maintain vigilance during periods of heavy rain, as rapid flooding can cause significant and sudden infrastructure damage. Always prioritize safety by obeying road closures and avoiding standing water on roadways.
Further reading
For more information on current hazardous conditions, visit Severe Weather.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chron.
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