Construction barges break free along the Potomac River leading to high water levels

Two construction barges broke free and floated away along the Potomac River. The incident took place near Harpers Ferry on Saturday night. The heavy rain resulted in the increased water levels in waterways around the Washington DC area.

The construction barges were transporting an excavator and other construction equipment. The two barges floated downriver to Harpers Ferry. The unrestrained barges crossed many dams before being controlled. According to the officials, no damages were reported in the incident. The several days of heavy rain resulted in water logging in many waterways and low-lying areas.

As per the sources, a dangerous situation was reported near the Rileys Lock Road in Montgomery County, where the increased water level blocked the roadway. The meteorological department has issued flood warnings all over the DC area and the Potomac River region.


What is a barge?

A flat-bottomed boat made for transportation of bulk goods and cargo through the rivers and canals. Initially, the barges were pulled by the draft horses on an inline towpath. Between 1967 and 1983 barges measured nineteen feet in length or larger. Nowadays, barges are self-propelled with low revving diesel powertrain with a fixed-pitch propeller.

What does the weather report say for Washington DC?

The weather department has issued an alert in the DC area with warnings of showers and flood risks.