High water levels create road closures, concerns across Carroll County

Carroll County commissioners received an update on rising water levels and flooding concerns during their April 6 meeting as recent rainfall continues to impact roads and low-lying areas.

Emergency Management Agency Director Tom Cottis said lake levels at Atwood and Leesville have continued to rise following several weeks of rain, with water being held back temporarily to reduce downstream pressure.

“We’ve had a pretty good amount of rain the last few weeks, and the lake levels are still coming up,” Cottis said.

Cottis said the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is holding water at both lakes for several days until conditions improve downstream, particularly near Dover, where levels remain elevated.

He said several roads around Atwood Lake are already impacted, with some underwater and others nearing closure. County Road 20 is expected to remain closed until water levels drop several feet.

“It’s going to be an inconvenience,” Cottis said.

Despite the flooding, Cottis said no homes are currently in danger, though some areas are experiencing access issues. Elevated road improvements in parts of the county have helped prevent some neighborhoods from becoming isolated.

Cottis also reported a potential issue involving a gas line in flooded water that is producing bubbles. He said multiple companies are being investigated as the possible source, and state agencies including the Ohio Department of Natural Resources are involved.

“There’s no danger to the public,” Cottis said, noting the issue remains under investigation.

Officials warned residents not to drive through flooded roadways, emphasizing the risks associated with high water.

Commissioners also noted an incident over the weekend in which a driver bypassed road closure signs and drove through high water, later posting video of the act on social media.

Officials said such behavior is dangerous and could lead to serious accidents, especially in areas where water conceals drop-offs or deeper ditches.

Cottis said a complete list of road closures is still being compiled and will be shared through local agencies and social media once finalized.

In other business, commissioners:

—APPROVED a contract with Ports Petroleum Co. Inc. to furnish and install fuel tanks and related equipment at the Carroll County Highway garage.

—HEARD Dog Warden Merle Long report three dogs were impounded, one adopted and one redeemed, with no euthanizations, one citation for failure to file a dog license application and one citation for failure to confine or restrain a dog.

—HEARD Treasurer Jeff Yeager report total funds on deposit of $42,973,484.11, with $322,682.35 in interest earned during the first quarter of 2026.

—APPROVED installation of seven windows at the annex building by Bonfert Glass at a cost of $12,941, including wrapping of the windows, as part of ongoing renovations to accommodate the OSU Extension office.

—ENTERED executive session to discuss security arrangements and emergency response protocols, with no action taken.