Flooding in Skiatook: Bird Creek rises, shuts down Highway 20

Rising water from Bird Creek has flooded roads and shut down parts of Highway 20, leaving several streets in Skiatook underwater Wednesday.

High water from Bird Creek is flooding roads in Skiatook and forcing closures along Highway 20, while residents and businesses prepare for worsening conditions.

Flooding is impacting multiple neighborhoods, especially near Bird Creek, where water is rising beyond its banks. Highway 20 into town is currently closed, and officials say nearby streets are experiencing similar issues.

“This is one of several submerged roads here in Skiatook,” News On 6 reporter Cal Day said from the scene. “It gets even worse as you go further back to the creek.”

Residents say the flooding is a recurring problem, but still a disruptive one.

“I don’t panic. We do this every year,” said Kim Harper, who moved her car and valuables to higher ground. “I just don’t put anything too expensive out here. If it washes away, I don’t have to worry about it.”

At John Zink Park, floodwaters have turned fields into temporary lakes. First responders are monitoring Highway 20 and Highway 11 to keep drivers out of high water. Firefighters say they’ve already rescued at least one person who drove into a flooded road.

Local businesses are also taking precautions, placing sandbags in doorways and closing early to avoid potential flood damage.

“You take caution,” said Kyle Blakeman. “You’re better off than wading in waist-deep water at 3 a.m. like we did in 2019.”

Officials say the water is expected to rise further before cresting, though no damage to homes or businesses has been reported so far.

Authorities continue to urge drivers: “Turn around, don’t drown.”