Tennessee — A Flood Watch is in effect across portions of east Tennessee and southwestern North Carolina through Saturday evening as prolonged rainfall increases the risk of flooding.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, showers are expected to continue spreading across the region Friday afternoon, with periods of rain persisting into Saturday evening. Rainfall totals of 1.5 to 2.5 inches are possible across much of the watch area, with locally higher amounts in some locations.
The Flood Watch includes parts of southwest North Carolina, specifically Cherokee and Clay counties, as well as numerous counties in east Tennessee. Tennessee counties under the watch include Hamilton, Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, Rhea, Bledsoe, Sequatchie, Marion, Polk, Monroe, and surrounding areas. Communities impacted include Chattanooga, Cleveland, Athens, Dayton, Jasper, Dunlap, Pikeville, Sweetwater, Madisonville, Benton, Murphy, Andrews, and Hayesville.
The National Weather Service warned that excessive runoff may cause creeks and streams to rise quickly, potentially flooding low-lying and flood-prone areas. Urban flooding is also possible where drainage systems become overwhelmed, especially during periods of heavier rain.
Officials urged residents living near waterways or in flood-prone locations to remain alert for rapidly changing conditions. Flooding can occur with little warning, particularly overnight or in areas with poor drainage.
Residents are advised to monitor later forecasts and be prepared to act if Flood Warnings are issued. Motorists should avoid driving across water-covered roads, as even shallow flooding can be dangerous.
The Flood Watch is scheduled to remain in effect through Saturday evening, though it may be extended depending on rainfall trends.
