Latest on flooding in Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia ~ Gate City, Virginia. - News Article Locations on Waymarking.com

Latest on flooding in Northeast Tennessee, Southwest Virginia
STAFF • UPDATED TODAY AT 6:39 PM
Heavy rainfall has caused widespread flooding across the region. We’ll have continuing coverage at timesnews.net on this developing story. Email news@timesnews.net to share weather-related photos and information.

RICHMOND — Governor Ralph Northam declared a state of emergency today in response to heavy rains and extreme flooding in multiple jurisdictions in Virginia.

Localities in Southwest Virginia have been particularly hard hit by flooding, and as the storm continues to move east across Virginia, impacts and storm damage are expected statewide.

A state of emergency allows the Commonwealth to mobilize resources and position people and equipment to assist in storm response and recovery efforts.

“This weather is potentially dangerous, and rivers and streams can reach flood stage hours after the rain has passed,” said Gov. Northam. “I urge all Virginians to monitor forecasts, and be prepared to obey local evacuation orders if needed. We are grateful to first responders who are working to rescue people from flooded homes and keep citizens safe.”

The flooding has affected homes and required rescue of citizens, particularly in Southwest Virginia. According to reports from emergency officials, more than 500 residents in and around the town of Richlands, in Tazewell County, have been displaced by flooding and needed rescue from their homes. A number of roads in Southwest Virginia are closed or washed out.

Virginians should not drive across any flooded roadway, as it only takes six inches of water to move a vehicle, and roads may be washed out beneath the floodwaters.

Severe weather conditions are expected to persist across the Commonwealth for the next 24 hours. State and local officials will continue to monitor weather conditions.

Virginians should follow the Virginia Department of Emergency Management on Twitter and Facebook for preparedness updates and their local National Weather Service office for the latest weather forecast, advisories, watches, or warnings.

VSP advising motorists to remain alert for flooded roadways

As the rain continues to fall and with numerous roadways flooded, the Virginia State Police is advising Virginians to be alert for more flashing flooding and standing water across southwest and western Virginia. If having to travel this evening or overnight, be sure to check in advance VDOT's 511 Website or by downloading the 511 app for the latest road conditions and closures.

Motorists are reminded to never drive in flooded areas, as cars or other vehicles will not protect you from floodwaters. Especially after dark, flooded roadways can be very deceptive in regards to how deep the water is and how fast it may be moving. Floodwaters can also hide hazardous debris. Vehicles of any size can be swept away or may stall in moving water. The message is simple: Turn Around. Don't Drown.

Virginia State Police have been responding all day across the Wytheville Division to calls of debris in the road and flooded roads. Troopers have been working closely with VDOT to close and clear roadways for the safety of motorists and residents. Fortunately, crashes have been at a minimum as drivers have been driving for conditions.

American Red Cross responds to storm damage and flooding

The American Red Cross Tennessee Region has teams across middle and east Tennessee responding to storm damage and flooding. Disaster assessment teams will travel through affected communities when it is safe to do so. Shelters are on standby to open as needed to give displaced residents a safe place to stay.

One such shelter has been opened at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church in Johnson City.

As more rain moves through the state today, Red Cross workers are monitoring the situation and are ready to respond if additional assistance is needed. If someone is in need of assistance, they should call 1-800-RED CROSS.

For your own safety,

• Listen to local area radio, NOAA radio or TV stations for the latest information and updates.

• Be prepared to evacuate quickly and know your routes and destinations.

• Avoid contact with floodwater. It may be contaminated with sewage or contain dangerous insects or animals.

• Don't walk, swim or drive through floodwater. Just six inches of fast-flowing water can knock you over and two feet will float a car.

• If caught on a flooded road with rapidly rising waters, get out of the car quickly and move to higher ground.

• Stay out of areas subject to flooding. Underpasses, dips, low spots, canyons, washes, etc. can become filled with water.

Type of publication: Newspaper When was the article reported?: 02/06/2020 Publication: Kingsport Times News Article Url: [Web Link] Is Registration Required?: no How widespread was the article reported?: regional News Category: Weather

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