Nolichucky Dam Faces Imminent Breach: Emergency Evacuations Issued
The Nolichucky Dam in Greene County, Tennessee, is facing imminent failure, leading to emergency evacuations and a Flash Flood Warning for residents downstream. The National Weather Service (NWS) in Morristown issued the warning at 11:35 p.m. Friday, declaring a Flash Flood emergency for towns and cities immediately below the dam.
The NWS reported that dam operators had communicated the imminent failure of the dam. The warning emphasizes the severity of the situation, urging residents to seek higher ground immediately.
Evacuation Orders and Emergency Response
The Hamblen County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) has initiated mandatory evacuations for all residents in South Hamblen County along the Nolichucky River. A shelter has been opened at Manley Baptist Church at 3603 W Andrew Johnson Hwy, Morristown, TN, for those affected by the evacuation order. The shelter is expected to open within one to two hours.
Flood Impact and Warning Timeline
The NWS has provided a timeline for the potential flood impact if a complete dam failure occurs. The initial wave of floodwater is projected to hit the Briar Thicket Road Bridge in approximately three hours and the Highway 160 Bridge in about four hours.
The TVA, which manages the dam, initially issued a Condition Yellow for the dam but upgraded the status to red approximately two hours later, indicating an imminent breach. The TVA's River Forecast Center has activated a Condition Red Warning for the dam failure.
Areas Affected and Potential Hazards
The areas expected to be affected by the potential dam failure include North Central Cocke County, Southwestern Greene County, and Southeastern Hamblen County. The NWS has advised residents to heed all evacuation orders and to never drive into floodwaters. The situation is particularly dangerous, and residents are strongly urged to seek higher ground immediately.
A Call to Action: Seek Higher Ground and Stay Informed
The potential dam failure at the Nolichucky Dam poses a significant threat to the communities downstream. The situation is evolving rapidly, and residents are urged to take the following actions:
- Seek higher ground immediately: This is the most crucial step to ensure safety in the face of potential flooding.
- Heed all evacuation orders: Emergency officials are issuing orders to protect the public, and these orders must be obeyed.
- Stay informed: Monitor local news and weather updates for the latest information on the situation.
- Avoid driving into floodwaters: Floodwaters can be deceptively deep and swift, making it extremely dangerous to drive through them.
The communities impacted by this potential dam failure are facing a critical situation. By taking appropriate action, residents can help ensure their safety and the safety of their families. The situation remains fluid, and further updates will be provided as they become available.
