LOCAL NEWS — The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for all of Northern Alabama as well as Moore, Franklin, and Lincoln counties in Tennessee until 6 a.m. Wednesday morning. A watch means that conditions may develop that lead to flash flooding, which can be a very dangerous situation.

Southern, middle Tennessee has received almost two inches of rain since Saturday and weather officials predict that heavy rains and thunderstorms will resume this afternoon and continue overnight. According to the rain gauge located at Tims Ford Dam, we’ve received almost five inches of rain so far this year. With the ground already saturated, this mean that run off may happen quickly leading to the potential for both rapidly rising and swiftly flowing flood waters.

Public safety officials remind Moore County resident to avoid flood waters. Flash flooding and rapidly rising water levels claim more lives each year than any other thunderstorm-related hazard, according to the National Weather Service. A mere six inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult. It takes just 12 inches of rushing water to carry away most cars and just two feet of rushing water can carry away SUVs and trucks. Local officials say it is never safe to drive or walk in flood waters and most people underestimate the dangers. Remember, turn around. Don’t drown. •

{The Lynchburg Times is an independently owned and operated newspaper that publishes new stories every morning. Covering Metro Moore County government, Jack Daniel’s Distillery, Nearest Green Distillery, Tims Ford State Park, Motlow State Community College, Moore County High School, Moore County Middle School, Lynchburg Elementary, Raider Sports, plus regional and state news.}