Public Information Statement
Issued by NWS Greer, SC
Issued by NWS Greer, SC
777 NOUS42 KGSP 252044 PNSGSP GAZ010-NCZ033-048>053-058-059-062>065-501>510-SCZ101>103-261600- Public Information Statement National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC 444 PM EDT Wed Sep 25 2024 ...INCREASED THREAT OF LANDSLIDES AND DEBRIS FLOWS ACROSS THE MOUNTAINS AND FOOTHILLS FROM LATE THIS EVENING INTO FRIDAY... A band of rain has already developed across the mountains, well in advance of the rain associated with Helene, and the rain band is expected to continue to develop across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia tonight. Periods of heavy rain will occur tonight and through the day Thursday, followed by additional rounds of heavy rain associated with Helene Thursday night and Friday morning. The heavy rain is expected to result in significant flooding along creeks and streams. This has the potential to be an extremely rare event with significant and damaging flash-flooding along numerous streams. The excessive rain that falls through Thursday before Helene arrives will gradually raise the threat for landslides across the mountains and foothills. Enough rain is expected along and near the Blue Ridge Escarpment and upper French Broad Valley to result in a few landslides before Helene arrives. Once the rain from Helene moves in late Thursday, the threat for landslides and debris flows will increase sharply, and the threat will continue through Friday morning. Rainfall amounts of ten to fifteen inches are possible near the Blue Ridge Escarpment, before the rain moves out. Locally higher amounts are possible. Rainfall of ten inches or more in similar storms has been associated with a greatly increased risk of landslides and debris flows. Landslides, including fast-moving debris flows consisting of water, mud, falling rocks, trees, and other large debris, are most likely within small valleys that drain steep slopes. Landslides are powerful and potentially deadly, capable of washing out roads, bridges, and homes. People living in areas prone to landslides should be aware of the danger and be prepared to act. Here are recommended actions to consider both ahead of the storm and when the heavy rain begins. Before the Storm: 1. If you live on a mountainside or in a cove at the base of a mountain, especially near a stream, be ready to leave in advance of the storm or as quickly as possible should rising water, moving earth, or rocks threaten. Identify a sturdy shelter on higher ground such as a well-built home, church or school. 2. Stay alert. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local media for possible flash flood warnings. During the Storm: 1. Avoid driving near steep slopes or crossing stream valleys, particularly at night. Never try to drive across a flooded road. Potential hazards to drivers include washed-out roads, bridges, and falling or flowing large debris. Turn Around, Don`t Drown! 2. Immediately move away from steep slopes and small streams in steep valleys. Seek refuge on higher ground away from streams, preferably in a sturdy shelter. 3. Stay alert. Many landslide fatalities occur when people are sleeping. Be aware that short intense bursts of rainfall are most likely to cause landslides. 4. Keep tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or local media for the latest warnings and statements regarding this potentially dangerous weather event. More information on safety and preparedness for potential landslides can be found at:landslides.usgs.gov/learn/prepare.php For general flood safety and preparation advice, please visit: www.ready.gov/floods Additional weather information and updates on this potentially dangerous weather situation can be found at: www.weather.gov/gsp $$ PM