Heavy rain locally prompts flood warnings

Published 12:04 am Tuesday, February 12, 2013

 

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Rain will continue to pelt Covington County through Wednesday, the National Weather Service predicts.

Severe weather first arrived locally Sunday night with high winds, heavy rains, periods of hail and warning sirens. On Monday, rainfall was steady, and a river flood warning was issued for the Conecuh River at Brewton through Friday. At 9 a.m., the flood stage was at 14.5 feet; however, it is expected to rise to 27 feet by Friday evening.

But that isn’t the only warning facing the area. The county is under a flood warning until 6:15 a.m. today and a flash flood warning until 10 p.m. tonight.

Due to heavy rainfall, PowerSouth Energy Cooperative activated its high water notification alert for a controlled release at Gantt and Point A dams just before 3 a.m. Monday. Currently, there is 27 feet of gate open at the Point A Hydro.

“Residents around the lakes are reminded that lake elevations are always subject to change, depending on conditions,” said Mark Ingram, PowerSouth’s communication manager. “We urge residents and property owners to stay abreast of the weather situation and take necessary safety precautions. Low-lying areas should be avoided. Also avoid downed power lines and contact your local electric provider in the event of a power outage.”

The same advice can be given for all county residents, said County EMA director Susan Harris.

Shortly before 4 p.m. Monday, only one road closure – Beavers Drive, a public dirt road located off North Creek Road, was reported, Harris said; however, areas around Five Runs Creek and Cravey Bridge Road are being closely monitored.