Flood warning issued for southeastern Buncombe County
Heavy rain expected to bring high water conditions to Swannanoa Valley
Fred McCormick
The Valley Echo
May 19, 2020
Flat Creek begins to swell as heavy rains continue to fall over Black Mountain and other parts of eastern Buncombe County. The Greenville-Spartanburg National Weather Service issued a flood warning for the area that will remain in place until 6:15 p.m. on May 19. Heavy rain is expected in the area through May 21. Fred McCormick
As heavy rainfall continues throughout the region, the Greenville-Spartanburg, SC National Weather Service issued a flood warning for southeastern Buncombe County and surrounding areas.
The warning, issued just after noon on May 19, will remain in place until 6:15 p.m.
The NWS reported that radar was depicting “periodic moderate to heavy showers” as a storm system made its way north across parts of Rutherford, Henderson, Polk and Buncombe Counties throughout the afternoon.
“Expect rising stream levels and developing high water conditions throughout the headwaters of the Green, North Pacolet and Broad Rivers,” the warning stated. “Locally, as much as 5 inches of rain may accumulate by this evening.”
The water level in Lake Susan rises as the Greenville-Spartanburg National Weather Service issues a flood warning for southeastern Buncombe County on May 19. Fred McCormick
The NWS advised motorists to not make attempts to cross water-covered roads, bridges or other crossings and added that the heavy rains bring an increased risk of landslides, particularly in areas where they have been known to occur.
“Be especially alert if you are near a stream, especially at the base of a mountain or in a cove,” the NWS statement continued. “Watch for loose-moving soil and rocks or a sudden increase in streamflow. Leave the area quickly if this is observed.”
The Swannanoa River continues to rise as the Greenville-Spartanburg National Weather Service issues a flood warning on May 19. Fred McCormick
As waterways throughout the Swannanoa Valley begin to swell, the NWS predicts the rain will continue into May 21.
A flash flood watch is in place until Thursday, with the NWS advising that rainfall totals of 8 - 10 inches are possible near the northern Blue Ridge Escarpment.