Flood Watch Continues for Middle Tennessee Through Tonight
Flood watch continues through tonight as saturated soils from yesterday’s heavy rainfall threaten dangerous runoff conditions across Middle Tennessee.
NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE — A flood watch remains in effect for parts of southern middle Tennessee through 8:00 p.m. today as saturated soils and potential additional rainfall threaten to worsen already dangerous flood conditions.
The National Weather Service in Huntsville, Alabama issued the watch at 7:35 a.m., warning that excessive rainfall could cause flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas. Franklin, Lincoln and Moore counties are included in the watch area.
Saturated Ground Conditions Worsen Threat
Yesterday’s heavy rainfall has left soils completely saturated across the region, meaning any additional precipitation today will result in almost entirely runoff. Northeast Madison County and most of Jackson County in Alabama received seven to eight inches of rainfall yesterday, while three to five inches fell elsewhere in the watch area.
“Due to saturated soils, additional rainfall today will be almost entirely runoff,” according to the National Weather Service advisory.
Flooding Impacts Expected
The excessive runoff may cause creeks and streams to rise out of their banks, with flooding likely in poor drainage and urban areas. Officials warn that those living in flood-prone locations should be prepared to take immediate action if flooding develops.
The weather service emphasizes that rivers, creeks, streams and other low-lying areas face the highest risk of flooding as runoff from saturated ground combines with any new precipitation.
Safety Preparations Urged
Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to monitor conditions closely and have evacuation plans ready. The combination of yesterday’s heavy rainfall and today’s potential for additional precipitation creates particularly dangerous conditions for flash flooding.
The flood watch covers not only portions of southern middle Tennessee but also extends into northern Alabama, including Cullman, DeKalb, Jackson, Lauderdale, Limestone, Madison, Marshall and Morgan counties.
Officials continue to monitor weather conditions throughout the day as the flood watch remains in effect until this evening.
