COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. — Cocke County officials are preparing for severe weather as the region faces a Level Four threat condition, signaling that residents and emergency response teams should prepare for potential flooding.
“We’ve been called out over 120 times in three years, and roughly 40% to 45% of those times, swift water rescue operators are actually gearing up and getting in the water to perform some type of a rescue,” said Joe Esway, Cocke County Emergency Management Agency Director.
In response to the increased risk, the county's swift water rescue team is gearing up and loading their equipment to be ready for any call.
“We’ve had portions of Cocke County that haven’t flooded in 40 years that have seen some of the worst flooding imaginable,” said Esway.
The team, consisting of 13 operators, is ready to be deployed wherever needed, but officials urge residents to be proactive and plan ahead.
“If you’re in an area that floods every year or a couple of times a year based on this type of weather prediction, it’s time to pack things up and head to a relative or a friend’s home,” said Esway.
While the rescue team is prepared to respond to all calls, they ask residents to be patient.
“Don’t automatically count on an expedient rescue,” said Esway. “We will get to everybody that we need to get to. It’ll take time. So be practical, be smart about your circumstances.”
Officials recommend gathering essential items like flashlights, batteries and necessary medications in advance.
“Think about what you need if the power goes out or if social services are down for a while because of flooding,” Esway said. “Do you have it? And let’s make a plan to get a hold of it.”
As severe weather approaches, officials remind residents to stay informed and take steps to ensure their safety.