Knoxville Braces for Heavy Rains and Flash Flooding
People in Knoxville should prepare for more heavy rainfall after an already storm-drenched week. Damaging winds, heavy downpours, and potential flash flooding are in the forecast for the last day of July. The region, including eastern Tennessee, remains under a flash flood watch.
Be Prepared for Torrential Downpours and Winds
Local meteorologists warn that the upcoming storms could bring straight-line winds between 60-70 mph and heavy rainfall that may fuel flooding. Some parts of the local region have already witnessed streets flooded and trees brought crashing down due to the recent heavy showers. The popular park, Dollywood, had to close down due to flash floods, leaving some visitors stranded without their vehicles.
When to Expect the Storms
The storms are most likely to hit the area between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m. Rainfall amounts could range from 1-3 inches during this time. While most areas will see around 1-2 inches of rainfall, those areas unfortunate enough to be caught in the most torrential downpours might experience up to 2.5-3 inches of rainfall.
Flash Flood Watch Explained
A flash flood is a sudden violent flood that can take less than three hours to occur following heavy rainfall. Factors including rain intensity and distribution, land use and topography, vegetation, soil type, and soil water content all determine the speed and location of the flash flood. This unpredictability can catch people off guard, making it even more crucial to heed warnings and stay informed. If a road is covered with water, avoid it at all costs,– a well-known piece of advice from the experts.
Flood Watches and Warnings in East Tennessee
A flood watch has been issued for many areas across eastern Tennessee. With rain and thunderstorms forecasted, it’s advised to stay prepared and alert over the coming days. While these showers are not expected to be severe beyond that day, residents should still take caution and stay informed about weather conditions for their safety.