UC Prepares For Flooding Potential With Weekend Rain

On the heels of last week’s ice storm, the Upper Cumberland faces flooding concerns this weekend.

As much as four inches of rain could fall before Monday. Putnam County EMA Director Tyler Smith said with the rain being spread out over four days there is potential for isolated flooding. Smith said flooding roadways and residents in low-level areas are the primary concern.

“Sunday is going to be our biggest day that we need to be aware of,” Smith said. “We just always tell people turn around, don’t drown. Don’t cross any flooded roads, it’s the number one killer of any weather related incident. It’s flooding incidents where somebody gets out and tries to cross a flooded road.”

Smith said that residents should be cautious of Willow Avenue intersections at Broad Street, Jackson Street and Spring Street. Following the ice storm, Smith said that trees uprooting from the rain will be a concern.

“That’s something we need to keep an eye on,” Smith said. “There’s still limbs hanging and trees where trees have fallen. So, that’s another thing that can weaken the tree even more with more weight on it. It’s just something we need to be prepared for, just in case.”

He said an additional concern is making sure that no children try to play in any flooded areas.

“Sometimes they can get swept down into a ditch or in a culvert,” Smith said. “It’s just very dangerous to even be in or around flooded waters.”

Smith said that residents living in low-level or flooding creek areas need to monitor this weekend’s weather. He suggested seeking higher ground if flooding begins and keeping a weather radio to monitor conditions.