Embankment failure closes eastbound I-82 near Wapato
By Dan Thesman on Monday, February 12th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories
WAPATO – (News release from Washington State Department of Transportation) Eastbound I-82 is closed near East Wapato (Donald Wapato Road) at exit 44. Travelers are advised to detour using the Yakima Valley Highway at exit 40 and exit 44 or detour via US 97.
On Monday, Feb. 12, maintenance crews from the Washington State Department of Transportation discovered erosion caused by embankment failure under the eastbound lanes of I-82 located north of Zillah estimated in size at 10 feet wide by 4 feet deep and 40 feet long. The erosion goes under the eastbound lanes of I-82 by several feet.
A team of WSDOT engineers are currently investigating the cause of the embankment failure. Once a cause is determined, crews will make a plan for repair. Eastbound I-82 will remain closed until further notice.
Photo via WSDOT
