The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Nashville District is monitoring forecasted weather conditions at USACE dam and recreation sites along the Cumberland River system, and they are urging local residents to practice water safety during outdoor activities this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, an estimated total of 2-3 inches of rainfall is likely throughout much of middle Tennessee and southern Kentucky. Additionally, thunderstorms and other severe weather events are possible, especially on Sunday afternoon and overnight.
The public is strongly encouraged to postpone recreation along the river downstream of Wolf Creek and Dale Hollow dams, and to practice proactive water safety tips when visiting USACE lakes this weekend.
Both dams are expected to increase water releases Saturday.
The Nashville District is also closely monitoring conditions along the Cumberland River and its tributaries, at the 10 locks and dams the district owns and operates. This includes in west Kentucky. And while current forecasts do not predict flooding, conditions can change rapidly, and USACE water managers maintain around-the-clock operations during periods of heavy rainfall.
Water levels in the Cumberland River Basin remain elevated with strong, fast currents. Many people do not realize two feet of water on a highway or bridge can float most vehicles. If the water is moving rapidly, the car, truck or SUV can be swept off the bridge and into a body of water.
Water can also erode the roadbed, creating unsafe driving conditions. Underpasses can fill with water, while the adjacent roadway remains clear. Many flash floods occur at night when flooded roads are difficult to see.