East Tennessee is facing intensified flooding as Hurricane Helene travels toward the state, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. The slow-moving heavy rainfall on Wednesday has already prompted flood watches and warnings in the region by the National Weather Service.
Although the rainfall on Wednesday was not directly associated with Helene, the agency warns that the situation will worsen as the hurricane makes landfall. Evacuation and sheltering of households in Mountain City have already taken place, with more impacts expected throughout the weekend.
The agency has issued a statement indicating that the effects of Helene are expected to be felt from this evening through Friday morning, with significant rainfall, widespread power outages, and damaging winds being potential outcomes. In response to the hurricane, a specialized Swiftwater Rescue Team has been deployed from Tennessee to Florida to assist with emergency services in the Pensacola area.
Seventeen personnel from various fire and emergency agencies are part of the team, focusing on water rescues and other critical operations in the affected areas. Residents are advised to stay informed about the evolving situation and follow any evacuation orders or safety guidelines issued by local authorities.
