Dam Release Could Cause Flooding In Jackson County

The Army Corps of Engineers has begun releasing water from the Wolf Creek Dam.

Jackson County officials have urged residents living near the area to consider relocating or be prepared to evacuate within short notice.

Jackson County EMA said the water release may push the Cumberland River into it’s action stage and potentially into flood stage in Jackson County.

“This could cause areas along the river to be inundated with water,” a press release from Jackson County EMA said. “Also, creeks may back flow and cause flooding along their route to the river.”

Officials expect to see rising water levels beginning Saturday night as the release takes place for the next 48 hours.

“We are going to be sending personnel door to door in some of our flood prone areas to urge residents to evacuate as a precaution within the coming hours.” Said Chief Deputy Chris Carter of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Dept. “We will be working with other county officials and departments to open a couple of preliminary shelters for people to come to in if they want to evacuate and do no have any where to go.”

Carter said it is extremely imperative that the public stay weather-aware and monitor the water areas around their location.