The Nolichucky River is expected to crest just below minor flood stage later today, but emergency officials do not anticipate significant threats to lives or property.
The National Weather Service forecasts the river will reach 11.5 feet by late afternoon or early evening. Action stage for the river begins at 10 feet, with minor flood stage set at 12 feet. For comparison, flooding from Hurricane Helene pushed the river past 34 feet.
The river had risen about six feet since early Wednesday, but had leveled off briefly just before 11AM on Thursday. The forecast is based on the amount of rain in the watershed, but also on the depth, width, and contour of the river – all of which changed dramatically last fall.
Heather Sipe, EMA Director, said that while the river is not expected to rise high enough to impact bridges or roads, the action and flood stages for the river may not be the same as they were before the flood Those water marks will be assessed by the National Weather Service for better future forecasting. Until those new guidelines are established, the NWS will issue statements and forecasts based on prior measurements.
Sipe said local emergency personnel continue to monitor levels along the Nolichucky, and have been in contact with other counties upstream. Sipe urged anyone who lives near the river, just go keep an eye on conditions and be prepared if any actions are needed. Currently, there are NO flood advisories or warnings issued in Greene County.
High water levels are also predicted for the French Broad and Pigeon rivers in Cocke County, which collect runoff from a large portion of North Carolina. Both rivers experienced significant flooding during Hurricane Helene.
Helene’s floods altered the riverbanks, islands, and surrounding vegetation, prompting officials to closely monitor how the rising water behaves. Historically, high water takes about 24 hours to travel from the Embreeville gauge through Greene County. However, during a minor rain event in January, the crest moved downstream much faster, reaching the Greeneville water intake plant in just a few hours.
In preparation, the Greeneville Water Commission has taken precautions to protect the county’s drinking water supply. Temporary pumps remain stationed along the riverbank, and benchmarks have been established to monitor water levels. Superintendent Laura White said the pumps can be relocated to higher ground if necessary.
