Warren County Emergency Management reports that Hwy. 465 to Eagle Lake from Hwy. 61 North is now open to light traffic, passenger cars and light trucks. No heavy trucks or equipment are allowed to pass at this time.

Warren County Emergency Management Director John Elfer said that it is possible larger trucks will be able to use the road next week.

“MDOT was able to complete repairs faster (and open the road) because water fell out quicker than anticipated,” Elfer said.

Even though Hwy. 465 is open to light traffic, Elfer strongly discourages using the road to travel to areas that were affected by the flood unless you have a reason to do so.

“We discourage sightseeing,” Elfer said. “There is a lot of debris that is left. Most roads are passable, but some still need attention. If you don’t have business up there or any of the backwater areas, stay away until we are out of recovery mode. It could take months or longer to get these areas back like they were before.”

Law enforcement will continue to have a presence at Eagle Lake as well as the other backwater areas. Eagle Lake remains closed for recreational use.