Full Notification

FLOOD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM WEDNESDAY MORNING THROUGH FRIDAY AFTERNOON...

* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible.

* WHEN...From Wednesday morning through Friday afternoon.

* IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in significant and damaging
flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and
flood-prone locations. Areas that are not typically impacted by
floodwaters may flood.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...
- Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall are expected due to the
interaction of tropical moisture along a stationary front,
followed by the passage of Tropical Storm Helene. Storm-total
rainfall of 8-12 inches is expected along the entire length
of the Blue Ridge Escarpment with widespread 5-8 inches
expected across the remainder of the mountains as well as the
Piedmont. This has the potential to be an extremely rare
event with significant and damaging flash-flooding along
numerous streams.
- http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Flood Watch for flash flooding means there is a potential for
rapid onset flooding based on current forecasts. Flash flooding is a
very dangerous situation and may impact areas that do not typically
flood. Please monitor the latest forecasts and be prepared to take
action quickly should Flash Flood Warnings be issued.

Rainfall of more than five inches in similar storms has been
associated with an increased risk of landslides and rockslides. If
you live on a mountainside or in a cove at the base of a mountain,
especially near a stream, be ready to leave in advance of the storm
or as quickly as possible should rising water, moving earth, or
rocks threaten. Consider postponing travel along mountain roads
during periods of heavy rainfall.

Low-lying areas adjacent to streams, including campgrounds, are
especially vulnerable to flooding. If you live or are vacationing
next to a stream, please have a plan in place to seek higher ground
once heavy rainfall develops. Flash floods can occur quickly and
overwhelm adjacent low-lying areas with little warning. Once the
stream starts to rise, you may only have minutes to evacuate. Flash
floods can cause catastrophic damage and be powerful enough to sweep away campers, vehicles, and mobile homes. Consider temporarily relocating away from streams until the heavy rainfall threat passes.