Some flooding reported in county, more expected

Some flooding has been reported in Pulaski County this morning as rains from the remnants of Florence, and flows out of Claytor Dam increase.

Peak Creek
While it rained in Pulaski, the predicted heavy rains over several hours have not yet materialized – leaving Peak Creek in town safely within its channel so far. (Photo taken early this morning by Junior Moles)

County Supervisors Chairman Andy McCready reported this morning that Clarks Ferry Road which runs parallel to the New River in Draper has been closed by high water.

McCready said there had also been some spotty flooding along Lead Mines Road in Hiwassee.

A reader in the Allisonia area reports that Julia Simpkins Road is now closed due to high water.

“Claytor Dam plans to increase flow by an additional 20,000 cubic feet per second on its way to an additional 60,000 cubic feet per second,” McCready reported. “We expect some lighter flooding at Parrott-Belspring at the current rate of flow, and when that flow goes higher we will definitely see flooding in that area as well as Hazel Hollow.”

“As Claytor increases the flow rate we’ll see more flooding,” he added.

McCready said is well-staffed to react to the flooding situation.

“We’ve still got a number of swift water rescue teams stationed here, Pulaski County emergency services is fully crewed as is VDOT,” he noted.

The National Weather Service now projects the New River at Radford will peak at 14.4 feet – just over flood stage.

Staff Report/The Patriot

Pictured: One of several swift water rescue teams visiting Pulaski County that were waiting on standby at the County Administration Building on Friday. (Photo by Kim Wright)