I-15 Reopens Near Utah/Arizona/Nevada Border

As of Friday, 9-12-14, traffic is being allowed north and south on I-15 through the Virgin River Gorge and also between Mesquite and Las Vegas. Here's the latest we've heard:

According to UDOT one lane is open in each direction south of Mesquite, Nevada.

Southbound traffic is open to all traffic except oversize loads.

Northbound traffic is open but commercial vehicles are restricted from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. No oversize loads.

UDOT warns drivers to prepare for major delays.

The material below gives details about the flooding that closed the freeway.

Udate from UDOT - 9-9-14 - We've got some good news for residents who need to head to the Las Vegas area! Per Nevada Highway Patrol, drivers can take I-15 SB to ext 93, where they will be directed onto SR 169 through the Valley Of Fire, and then brought back around to I-15 SB. Also, this road will be kept open 24 hours a day for the next week and will not be closing at night as it normally does. To further clarify, this route is open for both Northbound and Southbound traffic. Please take your time and be safe!

Our summer of flash floods continues, with a big flood yesterday shutting down miles of I-15 near the Utah/Arizona/Nevada border.

Traffic was closed in both directions yesterday. At this writing I'm hearing that some northbound traffic is being allowed but that southbound lanes are closed and will probably remain closed for 2-3 days.

People traveling northeast from Las Vegas are being advised to take US 93 in Nevada north and then Hwys 319 and 59 east to rejoin I-15 at Cedar City, Utah.

That is a major detour adding many miles to trips. Study maps and watch for updates on road conditions.

We hear that there has been much damage to I-15 in the Virgin River gorge, but the major damage is farther south near Mesquite.

Heavy rain is expected to continue to day, with more flooding likely. Stay out of slot canyons for the next couple days.

The weather is then expected to improve and the weekend should be nice - at least that is the current report.

- Dave Webb