Flash flood warning issued for Middle Tennessee

Feb. 19--A flash flood watch is in effect across Middle Tennessee as the region is expected to be doused in upwards of 5 inches of rainfall in the coming days.

The National Weather Service issued the watch on Tuesday afternoon as heavy rains began to fall on Columbia joined by strikes of lightening, thunder and bits of hail.

The watch is expect to remain in effect through Thursday morning.

"Rain is spreading northward across Middle Tennessee this afternoon and will continue through tonight into Wednesday as a warm front lifts northward from the Gulf Coast," a message from the weather service said. "Rain will be heavy at times this evening into tomorrow. Due to the saturated ground from recent rainfall, this additional heavy rain could lead to flash flooding."

With grounds already saturated and more rain expected, NWS says there is a chance flash flooding will occur near rising creeks and rivers as rains continue to fall into the weekend.

"These totals, combined with the recent rainfall and already saturated ground, could lead to significant flooding across the area," the weather service said.

The Columbia Fire and Rescue urges all residents to use extreme caution when dealing with floodwaters.

"It does not take much water to move a vehicle," Chief Ty Cobb previously told The Daily Herald. "A car can be taken away in as little as two feet of water. The current running through the center of a flooded area, especially a road, can be very dangerous."

Emergency personnel are encouraging local residents to take precautions to prepare for potential flood waters. More than 6 inches of standing water or four inches of moving water can be damaging to most vehicles, according to The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), along with the First Tennessee Area Agency on Aging and Disability (FTAAAD).

TEMA and the FTAAAD suggest people take these precautions when preparing for a potential flood:

* Maintain a disaster ready supply kit, which can include things like food, water, dry clothes, first-aid and a local map.

* Have written instructions on procedures to turn off electricity, gas and water utilities.

* Find out if your home is at risk for flooding by checking your homeowner's insurance policy regarding flood coverage.

* Create an evacuation plan identifying potential safe spaces and routes for travel.

* Store important documents, information and valuables in a safe-deposit box or a fireproof or waterproof container.

* Have a radio with extra batteries in the home in case a cell phone gets damaged, wet or cell towers lose power due to weather.

* Listen to updates on the radio, social media or local television news.

* Be prepared to evacuate immediately if authorities issue an evacuation in your area.

* If you drive your vehicle, move slow and be aware of potential engine damage.

* Other cars stranded by the water are also a good indicator of a road's potential damage to your vehicle.

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