NEWLAND - N.C. Department of Transportation officials have closed a section of U.S. 221 until further notice for emergency drainage pipe repairs necessary following damage by excessive rain.
The 1.6-mile closure is in effect from the intersection of N.C. 194 (3-Mile Highway) to N.C. 183 in Burke County.
Traffic traveling north on U.S. 221 from McDowell County will detour onto N.C. 183 and N.C. 181.
Traffic traveling south on U.S. 221 in Avery County will use the same detour but will still be able to access N.C. 194 3-Mile Highway.
As water levels recede in the coming days, department crews will assess the damage to determine if a contractor is needed to perform the repairs.
Motorists are urged to slow down and use caution when approaching the detour.