UDOT issued an emergency alert on Saturday that US-191 was closed in Uintah County due to road damage. As of Sunday night the roadway was open but reduced to one open lane of alternating traffic at Mile Post 364, about 8 miles north of Vernal. According to Uintah County Commissioner Duane Shepherd, the danger is centered just south of the entrance to Simplot where Brush Creek travels through a culvert under the road. Due largely to spring runoff, erosion is being caused to the culvert. “It’s getting to where the road could wash out,” explains Shepherd. “UDOT is in complete control of this situation and have taken emergency measures with it.” It could take some time for there to be permanent fixes to the culvert because of the current flow of water. In their latest update, UDOT states that motorists are advised to use caution and expect delays in the area.
