Highway Closed Following Arkansas River Barge Collision
SALLISAW, Okla (HighlyRespectedNews) – The Oklahoma State Patrol has announced the temporary closure of South U.S. Highway 59 after a barge struck a bridge over the Arkansas River. The incident, which occurred south of Sallisaw, necessitated the immediate diversion of traffic, as stated by state patrol spokesperson Sarah Stewart.
Barge Collision Leads to Highway Closure
South U.S. Highway 59 has been closed to safeguard public safety and conduct a thorough inspection of the affected bridge. The closure, effective since 1:25 p.m., will persist until the bridge spanning the Arkansas River at the Robert S. Kerr Reservoir receives a comprehensive inspection. The Oklahoma State Patrol, local authorities, and relevant inspection teams are coordinating efforts to mitigate the impact of the incident.
Injury Reports and Cause Unclear
No injuries have been reported as a result of the barge collision with the bridge. Both the barge and the roadway were fortunately devoid of human casualties, thus promoting the focus on conducting a comprehensive inspection of the affected infrastructure. The cause of the barge striking the bridge remains unknown, and further investigation is being carried out by the relevant authorities.
Similar Events Across the Nation
As engineers diligently work towards raising a section of twisted steel that sank into the Patapsco River, Maryland is grappling with its own bridge-related issue. The Francis Scott Key Bridge in Maryland partially collapsed after a massive cargo ship collided with its main supports. Experts are in the process of recovering and assessing the damage sustained, working towards reinstating the structural integrity of the bridge.
For the latest updates on this ongoing incident, stay tuned.
