ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A Flash Flood Emergency has been declared for the Swannanoa River Valley.
At 530 a.m., Buncombe County Emergency Management was reporting significant flows coming from the North Fork Reservoir on the North Fork Swannanoa River due to the excessive rainfall observed since last Wednesday. Additional significant flows are originating from the headwaters of the Swannanoa River near and above Montreat and Black Mountain as well as other tributaries of the Swannanoa River. Rapid rises are imminent along the Swannanoa River, resulting in major, catastrophic, and potentially historic
flash flooding within the valley.
“There is an increasing likelihood that this flooding will exceed the flash flooding observed in September 2004. Prepare NOW and heed all evacuation and other guidance from Buncombe County and local law enforcement in order to protect your life,” the National Weather Service Alert said.
Additional torrential rainfall is imminent for the North Fork Swannanoa River and the Swannanoa River Valley which will significantly exacerbate developing Major flood conditions, leading to the potentially historic rainfall anticipated.
“This is a FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY for Swannanoa River Valley below North Fork Reservoir. This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW!”