I-4 Closed Near Kissimmee Due to Flooding

Motorists diverted off interstate as heavy rain impacts Central Florida

Apr. 6, 2026 at 9:53am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Interstate 4 has been closed in both directions near Kissimmee, Florida due to flooding on the roadway. The closure is impacting a two-mile stretch between State Road 429 and World Drive, with all east- and westbound traffic being diverted off the interstate at the World Drive exit. The closure is expected to cause significant delays for morning commuters as a stalled front brings heavy rain and thunderstorms to the region.

Why it matters

I-4 is a major transportation artery through Central Florida, connecting Tampa and Orlando. Closures due to flooding can have widespread impacts on commuters, businesses, and emergency services in the region. This event highlights the vulnerability of critical infrastructure to extreme weather events, which are expected to become more frequent and severe due to climate change.

The details

According to the Florida Highway Patrol and FL511, the closure of I-4 near Kissimmee was prompted by flooding on the roadway. The impacted section extends for about two miles, from mile marker 60 at State Road 429 to mile marker 62 at the World Drive exit. All east- and westbound traffic is being diverted off the interstate at the World Drive exit as crews work to clear the flooded area.

  • The interstate has been closed in both directions since the early morning hours of April 6, 2026.
  • The closure was first reported around 4:58 a.m. on Monday, April 6.

The players

Florida Highway Patrol

The state law enforcement agency responsible for monitoring and responding to incidents on Florida's highways, including the closure of I-4 near Kissimmee due to flooding.

FL511

Florida's official traveler information service, providing real-time updates on road conditions, closures, and other transportation-related events across the state.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Florida Highway Patrol and local authorities will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates on the status of the I-4 closure as the flooding subsides and the roadway is cleared for safe travel.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the importance of maintaining and upgrading critical transportation infrastructure to withstand the impacts of extreme weather events, which are becoming more frequent and severe due to climate change. It also highlights the need for effective emergency response and communication to minimize disruptions and ensure public safety during such events.