KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Based on forecasting from the Tennessee Valley Authority River Forecast Center, the Knoxville Emergency Management Agency has issued an urgent notice to residents in communities along the French Broad River.
This urgent warning is for East Knox County regarding potential flooding due to increasing the release of swell water from the Douglas Dam, authorities said.
"The release of water is necessary to maintain the integrity of the dam as water flows downstream from affected areas in Northeast Tennessee," authorities said. "Douglas Dam is currently at 55,000 cfs discharge."
The release of water is planned to bring the increase to 66,000 cfs and is estimated to be maintained for two to three days. During this time, the French Broad River is projected to rise two to two and a half feet.
officials said residents in the affected areas are advised to take the following precautions.
- Stay informed
- Be prepared for potential flooding and possible evacuation
- Avoid driving through flooded areas, as it can be difficult to gauge the depth of water and the condition of the road
the organization said if evacuation is recommended, emergency response agencies and KEMA will notify the affected communities as quickly as possible.
