SYLACAUGA, Ala. – Rain continues to fall throughout Sylacauga and the surrounding areas.
According to SylacaugaNews.com weather, rain and thunderstorms are in the forecast until late tonight.
Since the heavier rainfall began this morning, the area has seen over three inches of precipitation according to Sylacauga Utilities Board General Manager Mitch Miller. “With this volume of rain the ground has become completely saturated, and it is my opinion that there could be an issue with trees falling if we were to get any significant wind,” Miller explained. “If there are any downed trees or lines, we will do our best to get everyone’s power restored as soon as possible.”
Miller was correct in his assessment. Multiple trees have fallen inside of the city limits. This tree fell on top of an Alabama State Trooper’s vehicle on E. Blackmon St. Owner of the home Theresa Yates told SylacaugaNews.com the tree damaged a storage building in the back yard and the back end of the home.
Combined with the already saturated ground from previous days of rainfall, which Miller said amounts to around 2.5 inches, flooding in some Sylacauga neighborhoods became an issue. Pleasant Ridge and Motes Rd. played host to some of the worst flooding in the area. Some homes have been reported as taking in water.
Flooding can be dangerous, especially if you are out on the roadways. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe:
- Try to avoid standing water at all costs
- Never attempt to drive into flood water. Especially if the water is flowing. Let approaching cars pass first.
- Drive slowly and steadily if you must drive through a flooded area.
- Test your brakes as soon as you can afterwards.
- Fast-moving water is very powerful. Take care or your car could be swept away.
- If you do get stuck in flood water, it is best to wait in the car and call for help rather than try to get out.
Jeremy Law for SylacaugaNews.com | © 2017, SylacaugaNews.com/Marble City Media LLC. All Rights Reserved.
