Paris & Clarksville, TN – If you live in Paris or Clarksville, Tennessee, you need to be on high alert. Torrential rain from powerful thunderstorms is causing flash floods, and the National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Warning in effect until 9:00 AM CST Saturday. Water levels are rising fast, and conditions could become even more dangerous overnight.
What’s Happening Right Now?
A massive storm system is drenching Tennessee, dumping 2 to 3 inches of rain so far, with another 2 to 4 inches expected overnight.
Flooded streets, impassable roads, and rising water levels are already creating hazardous conditions. Officials have reported that Palestine Road in Paris is completely underwater, while standing water in Clarksville is making travel treacherous. Rivers and creeks are spilling over, putting homes and businesses at risk.
What to Expect in the Next 24 Hours
- Tonight through early Saturday: Expect more relentless rain, with some areas seeing up to 2 inches per hour. That means flash flooding can happen quickly and without warning.
- Saturday morning: Even as the rain slows, floodwaters will remain dangerously high. Saturated ground means water will drain slowly, keeping many roads flooded well into the afternoon.
- Saturday afternoon & evening: The skies may clear up, but some roads will still be too dangerous to drive on. Local officials are urging caution and warning that road closures could last for hours or even days.
- Sunday: A dramatic temperature drop is coming. Highs will barely reach 36°F (2°C) and lows will plunge to 19°F (-7°C). Leftover floodwater could freeze, creating slippery, icy conditions on roads and sidewalks.
Flooding Hotspots & Safety Alerts
Flash floods are extremely dangerous, and some locations are at severe risk:
- Paris, TN: Floodwaters have already shut down rural roads, especially near Palestine Road and the 218 Bypass. Emergency teams are monitoring the situation closely, and evacuations may be necessary if conditions worsen.
- Clarksville, TN: Water is pooling fast in streets, underpasses, and low-lying neighborhoods. Emergency responders are warning residents near rivers and creeks to prepare for possible evacuations.
How to Stay Safe
- Avoid driving at all costs. Flooded roads are killers. Just 12 inches of moving water can sweep your car away, and only 6 inches can knock you off your feet. If you see a flooded road, turn around—do NOT try to cross it.
- Prepare an emergency kit. Have flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, bottled water, and essential medications ready in case of power outages or evacuations.
- Stay informed. Keep up with the latest weather updates on NOAA Weather Radio, local news stations, or emergency alerts from city and county officials.
- Secure anything outside. High winds could follow the storms, so bring in patio furniture, grills, trash bins, or anything that could get blown away.
- Check on neighbors. Elderly or disabled residents may need help securing their homes or getting to higher ground.
Tennessee is no stranger to heavy rain, but this storm is particularly dangerous because of how fast the water is rising. If you live in a flood-prone area, have an evacuation plan ready, and don’t wait until the last minute to move to higher ground if needed.
