Hey Abbeville, there’s a serious flood warning in effect right now. The Ocmulgee River is expected to crest at 12.8 feet by Friday afternoon, which means we’re looking at rising water levels that could cause some flooding in our area. While this isn’t a catastrophic flood, it’s still enough to disrupt things, especially in places near the river or in low-lying areas. So, it’s time to get prepared and stay on top of the situation.
Why Should You Be Concerned?
With the river expected to crest above the flood stage, we’re likely going to see water spilling over the banks, especially in low-lying areas near the river. This could lead to flooding of roads, homes, and businesses, and even areas that aren’t directly along the river could experience issues as the water rises. While it’s not predicted to be a major flood, any rise in water can still cause disruptions, particularly for those who live near the river or in flood-prone zones.
The situation is developing, so it’s important to monitor things closely over the next few hours.
Here’s What You Need to Do
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Stay Updated: The weather and water levels can change quickly, so it’s crucial to keep checking local news or weather apps for the latest updates. Follow updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities. You’ll want to know right away if the river starts rising faster than expected.
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Avoid Flooded Roads: If you’re out driving, stay away from any roads near the river or low-lying areas that could be flooded. Even just a few inches of water can make a road hazardous. If you see water on the road, don’t drive through it—turn around. It’s always better to be cautious.
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Move Your Valuables: If you live near the river, now is the time to move anything that could get damaged by water—things like electronics, documents, and important items—up to higher ground or to a safer spot. Flooding can happen fast, so taking action early will protect your things from damage.
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Prepare Your Home: Take a quick look around your property and make sure everything is as flood-proof as possible. If you have a sump pump, check that it’s working properly. If you live in a flood-prone area, use sandbags or other barriers to keep water out of your home. Also, bring in any outdoor furniture or objects that could get swept away in the rising water.
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Have an Evacuation Plan: It’s always a good idea to be prepared for an emergency evacuation, just in case things escalate. Know the best routes to higher ground and make sure your car has enough gas if you need to leave quickly. Keep a small emergency kit with essentials like food, water, and any medications you might need.
What’s Coming Next?
The Ocmulgee River will keep rising until it crests at 12.8 feet by Friday afternoon, and the water will stay at that level for a while before it starts to recede. Once the water crests, things should calm down, but it could take a while for everything to return to normal. Some roads may stay flooded for longer, so keep an eye on any new alerts.
The rising Ocmulgee River poses a real risk of minor flooding in Abbeville. While it’s not expected to cause major damage, it’s still important to stay prepared and monitor the situation. Take action now to protect your home and family, and stay informed about what’s happening. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to flooding.
