Full Notification

FFWGSP The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg has issued a

* Flash Flood Warning for... McDowell County in western North Carolina...

* Until 415 AM EDT.

* At 1025 PM EDT, Rounds of torrential rainfall have impacted many areas of McDowell County following a prolonged period of steady light to moderate rain, which produced storm-total rainfall of 2-4 inches over the past 12 hours. Unfortunately, this current torrential rainfall is producing another 1.5-2.5 inches of rain over the past couple of hours. This rainfall over saturated soils is causing more significant rises to develop along areas streams and associated tributaries. Areas of greatest concern include the headwaters of Cove Creek and the Second Broad River near Sugar Hill, where the 3300 block of Sugar Hill Road is closed due to flooding; Nix Creek near Providence; Crooked Creek near Moffitt Hill; and the Upper Catawba River between Old Fort and Pleasant Gardens, including along Lytle Mountain Rd, where a foot of flood waters have currently closed the roadway. Additionally, a landslide has been observed on NC-226A with minor impacts to the roadway. Additional areas of Minor flooding are expected to develop over the next 1-3 hours. Please obey all barricades and heed all evacuation orders from local Emergency Management officials. HAZARD...Flash flooding caused by thunderstorms. SOURCE...Radar indicated. IMPACT...Expect flash flooding of low-lying areas near streams, including parks, trails, low-water crossings, boat- access areas, and campgrounds. Low-lying roadways are likely to be flooded. An isolated landslide or two cannot be ruled out.

* Some locations that may experience flash flooding include... Marion, Old Fort, Lake James, Lake James State Park, B.R. Parkway-Craggy To Little Switzerland, B.R. Parkway-Little Switzerland To Linville, Linville Falls, Pleasant Gardens, Sugar Hill and Glenwood.

* AFFECTED AREAS: MCDOWELL, NC

Instructions:

Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize the dangers of flooding. Be aware of your surroundings and do not drive on flooded roads. The additional heavy rain will increase the risk of landslides and debris flows, especially in areas where landslides have occurred in the past. Be especially alert if you live near a stream, particularly at the base of a mountain or in a cove. Watch for signs that a landslide may be imminent, including loose-moving soil and rocks or a sudden increase in streamflow. Stay indoors and do NOT go outside to investigate. Escape vertically inside your home by moving upstairs or getting on top of counters to avoid being swept away.