The National Weather Service in Blacksburg has updated their forecast, which indicates Roanoke may receive some significant flooding tonight and through the morning hours tomorrow. Roanoke has the potential to receive 1 to 4 inches of rain overnight, and the Roanoke River is now expected to rise to 16.5 feet, which is above major flood stage. This forecast is dependent on where and how long heavy rain falls tonight. Roadways may become impassable and streams, creeks and rivers may come out of their banks causing flooding.
Below are some things to remember to keep you and your family safe:
- If you live in a low-lying area that is prone to flooding, you are reminded to stay vigilant and aware of what is happening and head to higher ground if flood waters begin to rise.
- Bring pets inside.
- Never cross a flooded roadway or drive around a barricade - Turn Around Don’t Drown. A car can be displaced in just a few inches of water.
- Do not clean out culverts during flooding - you could drown.
- Never swim or walk through flood waters. Manhole covers can become displaced and you won’t see them. This could result in death.
A limited activation of the City of Roanoke Emergency Operations Center has been activated to monitor the situation overnight. Things the City of Roanoke has staffed to respond to flooding, if necessary, include the following:
- Roanoke Fire-EMS has staffed two swift water rescue teams that are ready to deploy, if needed.
- Our Streets and Traffic Division is prepared to deploy barricades to block flooded roadways.
- Our Stormwater Management Division will be monitoring the situation and provide feedback to the Roanoke Emergency Manager.
- Roanoke Police and Roanoke E-911 will be monitoring the situation and will provide feedback to the Roanoke Emergency Manager.
For more information, visit www.roanokeva.gov/flood and stay tuned to the City’s social media channels and local news for updated information.
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