10 Jul 2023 | 08:14 AM UTC
US: Authorities issue flash flood warnings for parts of northern Georgia until at least 07:45 EDT July 10
Authorities issue flash flood warnings across parts of northern Georgia, US, until at least 07:45 EDT July 10. Disruptions possible.
Event
The US National Weather Service (NWS) has issued flash flood warnings for parts of northern Georgia through at least 07:45 EDT July 10. The affected area includes parts of northern Bartow, northern Cherokee, southern Gordon, and much of Pickens counties. A separate flash flood warning has been issued for parts of central Floyd County through at least 06:30 EDT July 10. Rainfall totals of 6-11 cm (2.5-4.5 inches) have already fallen in parts of the affected area and further amounts of 2.5-5 cm (1-2 inches) are forecast in the coming hours.
Sustained heavy rainfall could trigger flooding in low-lying communities near rivers, streams, and creeks. Urban flooding is also possible in developed areas with easily overwhelmed stormwater drainage systems. Sites located downstream from large reservoirs or rivers may be subject to flash flooding after relatively short periods of intense rainfall. Landslides are possible in hilly or mountainous areas, especially where the soil has become saturated by heavy rainfall.
Authorities could issue mandatory evacuation orders for flood-prone communities over the coming days. Disruptions to electricity and telecommunications services are possible where significant flooding or landslides impact utility networks.
Floodwaters and debris flows may render some bridges, rail networks, or roadways impassable, impacting overland travel in and around affected areas. Ponding on road surfaces could cause hazardous driving conditions on regional highways. Authorities could temporarily close some low-lying routes that become inundated by floodwaters.
Severe weather could also trigger flight delays and cancellations at airports in the region. Flooding could block regional rail lines; freight and passenger train delays and cancellations are likely in areas that see heavy rainfall and potential track inundation.
Localized business disruptions may occur in low-lying areas; some businesses might not operate at full capacity because of flood damage to facilities, possible evacuations, and some employees' inability to reach work sites.
Advice
Monitor local media for weather updates and related advisories. Confirm all transport reservations and business appointments before travel. Make allowances for localized travel delays and potential supply chain disruptions where flooding has been forecast. Do not drive on flooded roads. Charge battery-powered devices in the case of prolonged electricity outages.
