NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Emergency management agencies across Middle Tennessee are gearing up for potential flooding and severe weather this weekend.
Fifteen years ago, people were devastated by Mother Nature’s impact when Middle Tennessee saw historic flooding in Middle Tennessee. The Harpeth River was one of the hardest hit areas, and it continues to be an area of concern during weather events.
“Flooding is the most common natural disaster, especially in our area, as anyone who was here during the flooding of 2010 recalls. Those typical areas around the Harpeth River are ones to watch,” Jill Burgin, external affairs officer with Williamson County Emergency Management Agency (EMA), said.
Wilson County EMA Meteorologist Melissa Sizemore said another 2 to 3 inches are expected by Sunday, Feb. 16.
“That’s going to be quite impactful because it’s already on saturated grounds, so we are currently planning to be able to deal with some of our flooded creeks and streams, as well as to be able to handle any flash flooding issues across the Wilson County area,” Sizemore said.
According to Sizemore, Wilson County EMA is keeping an eye on creeks, rivers, and other areas that are prone to flooding, like the Lebanon Square.
“Much like other emergency managers and police chiefs, fire chiefs, public safety [officials] across the area, we’re all watching this,” Ken Weidner, director of Sumner County EMA, said.
Weidner said Sumner County EMA’s equipment is ready to go ahead of potential flash flooding.
“Some situations, you may have to take action. Some situations, a swift water technician may need to come get you, and understand this, too: swift water rescue is highly technical, so there’s a lot of training and specialized equipment that goes into affecting a swift water rescue,” Weidner said.
As they continue to monitor this weekend’s forecast, local emergency officials told News 2 they’re coordinating with local law enforcement and encouraging the community to stay connected.
“They can sign up for text alerts at our website, which is Williamsonready.org…We only send out true emergency alerts, so they won’t get inundated there,” Burgin said.
Meanwhile, in Wilson County, people can download the Wilson County EMA app for alerts.
“Also remember that our tornado sirens, they’re outdoor warning sirens, so you’re only really supposed to hear them if you’re outside, so don’t rely on those tools as a first means and first stop of notification on severe weather like that,” Sizemore said.
Don’t forget to take the power and reliability of the WKRN Weather Authority with you at all times by downloading the News 2 Storm Tracker app.
