Copper theft aggravated flooding in Detroit highways, say reports

DETROIT (Scrap Monster): According to reports, copper thefts were also a contributing factor to the major flooding in Detroit highways following the severe storm and rainfall. The state investigation team is still in the process of identifying all the possible factors, but stated that copper theft may also be one of a long list of potential reasons.

As per reports, stolen copper piping from substations has caused immense delays in getting the water cleared out from flooded roads. The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) personnel identified the theft only when they returned to pump the water following the torrential rain. The power outage disrupted pumping activities. The role of scrappers is under investigation, added MDOT spokesperson.

The heavy storm had dumped more than 5” of rain in parts of Southeastern Michigan, flooding highways. Parts of metro-Detroit were destroyed by the widespread rainfall. As per reports, Southfield, Ferndale and Royal Oak were hit most badly.