* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Kentucky, including the following counties, in east central Kentucky, Estill. In northeast Kentucky, Johnson and Martin. In south central Kentucky, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne and Whitley. In southeast Kentucky, Bell, Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Knott, Knox, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Wolfe. * WHEN. Through this evening. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and isolated embedded thunderstorms will affect much of eastern Kentucky today as Tropical System Helene approaches and passes through the area. Periods of heavy to, at times, torrential rainfall are expected from this, which may lead to incidents of flash flooding. A few mudslides will also be possible during this time. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. East winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected. East winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts of 60 to 70 mph possible for locations above 2000 feet such as the Log Mountains in Bell County as well as along Cumberland, Pine, and Black Mountains and locations immediately downwind of these locations. * WHERE. Portions of south central and southeast Kentucky. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. US Highway 23, US Highway 119, US Highway 421, KY Highway 38, KY Highway 74, KY Highway 160, and the Little Shepard Trail may be affected by some of the strongest wind gusts.

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Murphy * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 15-25 mph with gusts to 40 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 39 to 57 mph - The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional around 1 inch - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for moderate flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are possible. - PREPARE: Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches overflow. - Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. - PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None - Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://ready.gov/hurricanes

* WHAT. South winds 15 to 20 mph with frequent gusts of 35 to 40 mph. Higher elevations may experience a few gusts up to 50 mph. * WHERE. Portions of northeast Georgia, piedmont and western North Carolina, and upstate South Carolina. * WHEN. Until 7 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Due to saturated soils following Helene, any wind gusts this afternoon may bring down trees which normally could withstand such winds.

* WHAT. East to northeast winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 60 to 70 mph. Locally higher gusts possible north of the Great Smoky Mountains. * WHERE. Blount Smoky Mountains, Cocke Smoky Mountains, East Polk, Johnson, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, and Unicoi Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

* WHAT. Northeast winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph. * WHERE. Portions of east Tennessee and southwest Virginia. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Bryson City * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 20-30 mph with gusts to 45 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 39 to 57 mph - The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional around 1 inch - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for moderate flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are possible. - PREPARE: Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches overflow. - Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. - PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None - Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Waynesville * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 20-30 mph with gusts to 50 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 39 to 57 mph - The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional around 1 inch - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for extreme flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for extreme flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are likely. - PREPARE: Urgently consider protective actions from extreme and widespread rainfall flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action will likely result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Devastating to Catastrophic - Extreme rainfall flooding may prompt numerous evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may overwhelmingly overflow their banks in many places with deep moving water. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches may become raging rivers. In mountain areas, deadly runoff may rage down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter numerous structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Numerous places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of raging water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become very dangerous. Numerous road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected - The tornado threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. - PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None - Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Cullowhee * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 15-25 mph with gusts to 45 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 39 to 57 mph - The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional around 1 inch - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for major flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for major flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are likely. - PREPARE: Strongly consider protective actions, especially if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action will likely result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Extensive - Major rainfall flooding may prompt many evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may rapidly overflow their banks in multiple places. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches may become dangerous rivers. In mountain areas, destructive runoff may run quickly down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter many structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Many places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of moving water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become dangerous. Many road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected - The tornado threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. - PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None - Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Robbinsville * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 15-25 mph with gusts to 45 mph - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for wind 39 to 57 mph - The wind threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Remaining efforts to protect property should be completed as soon as possible. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Move to safe shelter before the wind becomes hazardous. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional around 1 inch - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for moderate flooding rain - The flooding rain threat has decreased from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for moderate flooding from heavy rain. Evacuations and rescues are possible. - PREPARE: Consider protective actions if you are in an area vulnerable to flooding. - ACT: Heed any flood watches and warnings. Failure to take action may result in serious injury or loss of life. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Significant - Moderate rainfall flooding may prompt several evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may quickly become swollen with swifter currents and overspill their banks in a few places, especially in usually vulnerable spots. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches overflow. - Flood waters can enter some structures or weaken foundations. Several places may experience expanded areas of rapid inundation at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas. Some streets and parking lots take on moving water as storm drains and retention ponds overflow. Driving conditions become hazardous. Some road and bridge closures. * TORNADO - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: - Situation is unfavorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Tornadoes not expected - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Tornadoes are not expected. Showers and thunderstorms with gusty winds may still occur. - PREPARE: Little to no preparations needed to protect against tornadoes at this time. Keep informed of the latest tornado situation. - ACT: Listen for changes in the forecast. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Little to None - Little to no potential impacts from tornadoes. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* WHAT. Southeast winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 60 to 65 mph. * WHERE. Blount Smoky Mountains, Cocke Smoky Mountains, East Polk, Johnson, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, and Unicoi Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 AM EDT Saturday. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

* WHAT. South winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * WHERE. Portions of east Tennessee and southwest Virginia. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

* WHAT. South winds 15 to 20 mph with frequent gusts of 35 to 40 mph. Higher elevations may experience a few gusts up to 50 mph. * WHERE. Portions of northeast Georgia, piedmont and western North Carolina, and upstate South Carolina. * WHEN. Until 7 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Due to saturated soils following Helene, any wind gusts this afternoon may bring down trees which normally could withstand such winds.

* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of east central, northeast, south central, and southeast Kentucky, including the following counties, in east central Kentucky, Bath, Elliott, Estill, Menifee, Montgomery, Powell and Rowan. In northeast Kentucky, Johnson and Martin. In south central Kentucky, Laurel, McCreary, Pulaski, Rockcastle, Wayne and Whitley. In southeast Kentucky, Bell, Breathitt, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Jackson, Knott, Knox, Lee, Leslie, Letcher, Magoffin, Morgan, Owsley, Perry, Pike and Wolfe. * WHEN. Through this evening. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and isolated embedded thunderstorms will affect much of eastern Kentucky today as Tropical System Helene approaches and passes through the area. Periods of heavy to, at times, torrential rainfall are expected from this, which may lead to incidents of flash flooding. A few mudslides will also be possible during this time.

* WHAT. South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts of 30 to 40 mph. Higher elevations may experience a few gusts up to 50 mph. * WHERE. In Georgia, Rabun County. In North Carolina, Graham, Haywood, Macon, Jackson, Swain, and Transylvania Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 AM EDT Saturday. * IMPACTS. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result. Due to saturated soils following Helene, any wind gusts this afternoon may bring down trees which normally could withstand such winds.

HLSGSP This product covers the western Carolinas and NE Georgia HELENE WEAKENS TO A TROPICAL DEPRESSION AS IT EXITS THE AREA. RIVER AND SMALL STREAM FLOODING WILL CONTINUE ACROSS MUCH OF THE AREA IN ITS WAKE. NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - All watches and warnings have been canceled * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None * STORM INFORMATION: - About 230 miles west-northwest of Charlotte NC or about 180 miles northwest of Greenville/Spartanburg SC - 36.6N 84.6W - Storm Intensity 35 mph - Movement North-northwest or 330 degrees at 28 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Helene has been downgraded to a Tropical Depression. The system, which is positioned over eastern Kentucky this afternoon, will continue to pull away from the area. However, significant river and areal flooding will continue over the next several days across the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia, particularly in the vicinity of the mountains and foothills. We continue to advise against travel unless fleeing rising floodwaters. Gusty winds behind the system will eventually subside toward sunset. The threat of landslides will gradually subside as the rain exits the area through the rest of the afternoon. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * WIND: Little to no additional impacts are anticipated at this time across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia. * FLOODING RAIN: Excessive runoff from the heavy rain over the past few days will continue to produce areal and river flooding across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia. * TORNADOES: No impacts are anticipated at this time across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: An evacuation is ongoing downstream of Lake Lure as a dam failure is imminent there. Otherwise, follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: If your home or shelter was damaged, be alert to the smell of gas leaks and be cautious around electrical wiring, broken glass, jagged metal and wood, and protruding nails and screws. Do not attempt to return to evacuated areas until local authorities have inspected roads and bridges and have given the all clear. Hazards like downed power lines and trees, washed out roads, continued flooding in low lying areas and non-functioning traffic lights make travel difficult. When inspecting damage, use flashlights rather than candles or flamed lanterns. Be aware of sparks that can ignite natural gas or other leaking flammables. When clearing out fallen trees, be careful with chainsaws and axes. Always wear protective gear and keep others at a safe distance. Leaning trees and those which have fallen on roofs or power lines can be especially dangerous. If you are not in good health or unsure about what you are doing, have someone with tree cutting experience do the job. Never cut trees without a partner. If using a generator, avoid carbon monoxide poisoning by following instructions provided by the manufacturer. Operate your generator in a well-ventilated space outside of your living area and away from open doors and windows. Problems with sewer backups can further contaminate standing flood waters. Keep children away from flood waters. Also, listen for boil water alerts as tap water may have become non-potable. Be alert for any lingering wind gusts which could take down weakened trees and/or power lines, collapse damaged structures, or cause flying debris. Be alert for flooding from rising rivers and streams which may have yet to crest. Remain informed of the latest river forecasts and heed any flood watches and warnings. Be alert for flooded roads which could be compromised or littered with debris. Avoid travel until water levels subside and roads have been cleared. Do not drive through places where flood waters cover the road. Turn around, don't drown! * ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org NEXT UPDATE ----------- As it pertains to this event. this will be the last local statement issued by the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg SC regarding the effects of tropical cyclone hazards upon the area.

* WHAT. Flooding caused by heavy rainfall from former Hurricane Helene continues to be possible. * WHERE. All of Middle Tennessee, including the following counties, Bedford, Cannon, Cheatham, Clay, Coffee, Cumberland, Davidson, De Kalb, Dickson, Fentress, Giles, Grundy, Hickman, Houston, Humphreys, Jackson, Lawrence, Lewis, Macon, Marshall, Maury, Montgomery, Overton, Perry, Pickett, Putnam, Robertson, Rutherford, Smith, Stewart, Sumner, Trousdale, Van Buren, Warren, Wayne, White, Williamson and Wilson. * WHEN. Through Saturday morning. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are possible, with storm total rainfall from Thursday through Saturday morning reaching 2 to 6 inches. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Southwest winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. * WHERE. All of Middle Tennessee. * WHEN. Until 7 AM CDT Saturday. * IMPACTS. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs and power lines could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

* WHAT. South winds 10 to 20 mph with gusts up to 40 to 50 mph. * WHERE. Cherokee and Clay Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 AM EDT Saturday. * IMPACTS. Gusty winds will blow around unsecured objects. Tree limbs could be blown down and a few power outages may result.

* WHAT. South winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. * WHERE. Portions of east Tennessee and southwest Virginia. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

* WHAT. Southeast winds 25 to 35 mph with gusts of 60 to 65 mph. * WHERE. Blount Smoky Mountains, Cocke Smoky Mountains, East Polk, Johnson, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, and Unicoi Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 AM EDT Saturday. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles.

HLSMRX This product covers East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, And Extreme Southwest North Carolina **HELENE HAS MOVED WELL NORTH OF WESTERN NORTH CAROLINA. IMPACTS ACROSS THE REGION ARE ONGOING** NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - The Tropical Storm Warning has been cancelled for Cherokee and Clay * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None * STORM INFORMATION: - About 110 miles north-northeast of Chattanooga TN - 36.6N 84.6W - Storm Intensity 35 mph - Movement North-northwest or 330 degrees at 28 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Helene has been downgraded to a depression as it moves northward into Kentucky this afternoon. Gusty winds will continue across Cherokee and Clay counties well into this evening but additional impacts are expected to be minimal here. Elsewhere in the southern Appalachian region significant impacts, including widespread historic flooding, continue. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * WIND: Prepare for hazardous wind having possible limited impacts across East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, And Extreme Southwest North Carolina. Potential impacts include: - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: Follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: Always heed the advice of local officials and comply with orders that are issued. Do not needlessly jeopardize your life or the lives of others. Closely monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather Radio and local news outlets for official storm information. Listen for possible changes to the forecast. * ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org NEXT UPDATE ----------- As it pertains to this event. this will be the last local statement issued by the National Weather Service in Morristown TN regarding the effects of tropical cyclone hazards upon the area.

HLSMRX This product covers East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, And Extreme Southwest North Carolina **HELENE TO BRING SIGNIFICANT FLOODING AND DAMAGING WIND GUSTS TO THE WESTERN CAROLINAS AND SOUTHERN APPALACHIANS** NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Cherokee and Clay * STORM INFORMATION: - About 90 miles east of Chattanooga TN - 35.1N 83.8W - Storm Intensity 45 mph - Movement North or 350 degrees at 32 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Helene has been downgraded to a Tropical Storm and was centered over the Smoky Mountains earlier this morning. The flash flooding and river flooding risk continues today. An additional one to two inches of rain is expected through this morning. Flooding issues will still be possible given all the recent rainfall. Gusts in excess of 40 mph will be possible in the valleys with the higher elevations seeing gusts up to 60 mph. These strong wind gusts will likely result in widespread downed trees and power outages across the region. Prepare for the potential of extended power outages. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * WIND: Prepare for hazardous wind having possible limited impacts across East Tennessee, Southwest Virginia, And Extreme Southwest North Carolina. Potential impacts include: - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN: Prepare for life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible devastating impacts across Cherokee and Clay counties. Potential impacts include: - Extreme rainfall flooding may prompt numerous evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may overwhelmingly overflow their banks in many places with deep moving water. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches may become raging rivers. In mountain areas, deadly runoff may rage down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter numerous structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Numerous places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of raging water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become very dangerous. Numerous road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. Prepare for life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible significant to extensive impacts across Cherokee and Clay counties. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: Follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: eep cell phones well charged. Cell phone chargers for automobiles can be helpful, but be aware of your risk for deadly carbon monoxide poisoning if your car is left idling in a garage or other poorly ventilated area. It is important to remain calm, informed, and focused during an emergency. Be patient and helpful with those you encounter. If you are a visitor, be sure to know the name of the city or town in which you are staying and the name of the county or parish in which it resides. Listen for these locations in local news updates. Pay attention for instructions from local authorities. Rapidly rising flood waters are deadly. If you are in a flood-prone area, consider moving to higher ground. Never drive through a flooded roadway. Remember, turn around don't drown! If in a place that is vulnerable to high wind, such as near large trees, a manufactured home, upper floors of a high-rise building, or on a boat, consider moving to a safer shelter before the onset of strong winds or flooding. Closely monitor weather.gov, NOAA Weather radio or local news outlets for official storm information. Be ready to adapt to possible changes to the forecast. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather warnings. * ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org NEXT UPDATE ----------- The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather Service in Morristown TN around 530 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.

HLSGSP This product covers the western Carolinas and NE Georgia **HELENE HAS PASSED MOST OF THE AREA. BUT SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS CONTINUE** NEW INFORMATION --------------- * CHANGES TO WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - None * CURRENT WATCHES AND WARNINGS: - A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Abbeville, Anderson, Avery, Buncombe, Burke Mountains, Caldwell Mountains, Catawba, Central Greenville, Cherokee, Chester, Cleveland, Eastern McDowell, Eastern Polk, Elbert, Franklin, Gaston, Graham, Greater Burke, Greater Caldwell, Greater Oconee, Greater Pickens, Greater Rutherford, Greenville Mountains, Greenwood, Habersham, Hart, Haywood, Henderson, Laurens, Lincoln, Macon, Madison, McDowell Mountains, Mecklenburg, Mitchell, Northern Jackson, Northern Spartanburg, Oconee Mountains, Pickens Mountains, Polk Mountains, Rabun, Rutherford Mountains, Southern Greenville, Southern Jackson, Southern Spartanburg, Stephens, Swain, Transylvania, Union NC, Union SC, Yancey, and York * STORM INFORMATION: - About 90 miles west of Greenville/Spartanburg SC or about 80 miles west-southwest of Asheville NC - 35.1N 83.8W - Storm Intensity 45 mph - Movement North or 350 degrees at 32 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Helene has been downgraded to a Tropical Storm and is now centered over the Smoky Mountains. Significant flooding has been observed across a broad area of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia, particularly in the vicinity of the mountains and foothills. Widespread tree and power line damage has occurred across the region, and many roads have been made impassable by floodwaters. We continue to advise against travel unless fleeing rising floodwaters. Wind gusts have peaked for the event over most of the area, but tropical storm force gusts will remain possible through early afternoon in the Piedmont and southern mountains of North Carolina, and through mid to late afternoon over the northern North Carolina mountains and on all ridgetops. Landslides still could occur across the mountains, at least until the last of the rain tapers off this afternoon or evening. Tornado threat is diminishing and now confined to the North Carolina Piedmont, and will taper off completely by early afternoon. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * WIND: Potential impacts from the main wind event are now unfolding across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia. Remain well sheltered from hazardous wind having additional limited impacts. If realized, these impacts include: - Damage to porches, awnings, carports, sheds, and unanchored mobile homes. Unsecured lightweight objects blown about. - Many large tree limbs broken off. A few trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Some fences and roadway signs blown over. - A few roads impassable from debris, particularly within urban or heavily wooded places. Hazardous driving conditions on bridges and other elevated roadways. - Scattered power and communications outages. * FLOODING RAIN: Potential impacts from the flooding rain are still unfolding across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia. Remain well guarded against life-threatening flood waters having additional devastating impacts. If realized, these impacts include: - Extreme rainfall flooding may prompt numerous evacuations and rescues. - Rivers and tributaries may overwhelmingly overflow their banks in many places with deep moving water. Small streams, creeks, canals, arroyos, and ditches may become raging rivers. In mountain areas, deadly runoff may rage down valleys while increasing susceptibility to rockslides and mudslides. Flood control systems and barriers may become stressed. - Flood waters can enter numerous structures within multiple communities, some structures becoming uninhabitable or washed away. Numerous places where flood waters may cover escape routes. Streets and parking lots become rivers of raging water with underpasses submerged. Driving conditions become very dangerous. Numerous road and bridge closures with some weakened or washed out. * TORNADOES: Potential impacts from tornadoes are still unfolding across the North Carolina Piedmont. Remain well braced against a dangerous tornado event having possible significant impacts. If realized, these impacts include: - The occurrence of scattered tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - Several places may experience tornado damage with a few spots of considerable damage, power loss, and communications failures. - Locations could realize roofs torn off frame houses, mobile homes demolished, boxcars overturned, large trees snapped or uprooted, vehicles tumbled, and small boats tossed about. Dangerous projectiles can add to the toll. Elsewhere across the western Carolinas and NE Georgia, little to no impact is anticipated. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: An evacuation is ongoing downstream of Lake Lure as a dam failure is imminent there. Otherwise, follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: If you are prone to flooding or in an area under a storm surge watch or warning, be prepared for the possibility of a quick and dramatic rise in water levels. If a tornado warning is issued for your area, quickly move to the safest place within your shelter. Protect your head and body. * ADDITIONAL SOURCES OF INFORMATION: - For information on appropriate preparations see ready.gov - For information on creating an emergency plan see getagameplan.org - For additional disaster preparedness information see redcross.org NEXT UPDATE ----------- The next local statement will be issued by the National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg SC around 5:30 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.

* WHAT. East winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected. East winds of 20 to 30 mph, with gusts of 60 to 70 mph possible for locations above 2000 feet such as the Log Mountains in Bell County as well as along Cumberland, Pine, and Black Mountains and locations immediately downwind of these locations. * WHERE. Portions of south central and southeast Kentucky. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT this evening. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. US Highway 23, US Highway 119, US Highway 421, KY Highway 38, KY Highway 74, KY Highway 160, and the Little Shepard Trail may be affected by some of the strongest wind gusts.

The Flood Warning is extended for the following rivers in Tennessee. Clinch River Above Tazewell TN affecting Claiborne, Grainger and Hancock Counties. For the Clinch River. including Tazewell TN. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHAT. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE. Clinch River above Tazewell TN. * WHEN. From this evening to tomorrow afternoon. * IMPACTS. At 10.0 feet, Action stage. At 12.0 feet, Flooding of pasture land near Grissom Island begins. The city of Tazewell, Tennessee is not affected by flooding of the Clinch River. At 13.0 feet, The road within a quarter mile of the gage begins to flood. At 16.0 feet, Extensive flooding of pasture land around Grissom Island occurs. The city of Tazewell, Tennessee is not affected by flooding of the Clinch River. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 1:15 AM EDT Friday the stage was 8.5 feet. - Bankfull stage is 12.0 feet. - Forecast. The river is expected to rise above flood stage this evening to a crest of 14.0 feet just after midnight tonight. It will then fall below flood stage late tomorrow morning. - Flood stage is 12.0 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

FFWMRX The National Weather Service in Morristown has extended the * Flash Flood Warning for. Cocke County in east Tennessee. Sevier County in east Tennessee. * Until 600 PM EDT. * At 346 PM EDT, local law enforcement reported flash flooding continuing across the warned area. Flooding impacts will continue, but no additional rainfall is expected. Creeks and streams remain near or above bank full, and numerous flooded roads remain closed. HAZARD. Flash flooding caused by heavy rain. SOURCE. Law enforcement reported. IMPACT. Flash flooding of small creeks and streams, urban areas, highways, streets and underpasses as well as other poor drainage and low-lying areas. * Some locations that will experience flash flooding include. Sevierville, Newport, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Parrottsville, Pittman Center, Cosby, Fairgarden, Hartford, Harrisburg, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Elkmont, Del Rio, Wears Valley, Round Mountain and Roundtop Mountain State Park.

FFWMRX The National Weather Service in Morristown has issued a * Flash Flood Warning for. A Dam Break on the Pigeon River below Walters Dam in. Western Cocke County in east Tennessee. Southern Hamblen County in east Tennessee. Southeastern Jefferson County in east Tennessee. * Until 930 PM EDT. * At 330 PM EDT, dam operators reported the failure of Walters Dam causing flash flooding downstream on the Pigeon River. This is a FLASH FLOOD EMERGENCY for towns and cities immediately below Walters Dam on the Pigeon River. This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW! HAZARD. Life threatening flash flooding from the failure of Walters Dam. SOURCE. Dam operator. IMPACT. This is a PARTICULARLY DANGEROUS SITUATION. SEEK HIGHER GROUND NOW! IMMEDIATE EVACUATION for areas downstream from the Walters Dam along the Pigeon River. * The nearest downstream town is Hartford Tennessee, located about 16 miles from the dam. If a complete failure of the dam occurs. The flood wave will reach the state line near the Waterville Hydro Station in about 20 minutes; Hartford, TN in about 30 minutes; Interstate 40 and Greasy Cove Road bridge in about 45 minutes; The flood wave will reach Interstate 40 and Wilton Springs road bridge in about 1 hour; Highway 73 near Edwina in about 80 minutes; The Highway 25 bridge east of Newport in about 2 hours; The flood wave will reach downtown Newport and the North Street bridge in about 2 hours and 30 minutes; Newport Industrial Park in about 3 hours; The flood wave will reach the confluence with the French Broad River in about 4 hours and then drain into Douglas Reservoir. Crests will occur at each location later than the initial arrival time of the flood wave. The flood wave is moving down the Pigeon River all the way down to Newport Tennessee.

The National Weather Service in Morristown TN has issued a Flood Warning for the following rivers in Tennessee. Little Pigeon River Above Sevierville TN affecting Sevier County. For the Little Pigeon River. including Sevierville TN. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHAT. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE. Little Pigeon River above Sevierville TN. * WHEN. From this afternoon to late tomorrow morning. * IMPACTS. At 11.0 feet, The river runs bankfull. No known damage occurs at this level. At 12.0 feet, Parking lots of various dining and entertainment venues along the river are flooding. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 11:00 AM EDT Friday the stage was 9.7 feet. - Bankfull stage is 11.0 feet. - Forecast. The river is expected to rise above flood stage late this afternoon to a crest of 12.0 feet this evening. It will then fall below flood stage late tonight. - Flood stage is 11.0 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

The Flood Warning is extended for the following rivers in Tennessee. Clinch River Above Tazewell TN affecting Hancock, Grainger and Claiborne Counties. For the Clinch River. including Tazewell TN. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHAT. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE. Clinch River above Tazewell TN. * WHEN. From this evening to tomorrow afternoon. * IMPACTS. At 12.0 feet, Flooding of pasture land near Grissom Island begins. The city of Tazewell, Tennessee is not affected by flooding of the Clinch River. At 13.0 feet, The road within a quarter mile of the gage begins to flood. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 10:15 AM EDT Friday the stage was 9.8 feet. - Bankfull stage is 12.0 feet. - Forecast. The river is expected to rise above flood stage this evening to a crest of 14.0 feet just after midnight tonight. It will then fall below flood stage late tomorrow morning. - Flood stage is 12.0 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Tennessee. French Broad River Near Newport TN affecting Cocke and Jefferson Counties. For the French Broad River. including Newport TN. Major flooding is forecast. * WHAT. Minor flooding is occurring and major flooding is forecast. This approaches the flood of record. * WHERE. French Broad River near Newport TN. * WHEN. Until late Monday evening. * IMPACTS. At 14.0 feet, Flooding begins on Rock Hill Road near Newport and Fugate Road near Del Rio. At 15.0 feet, Buildings at the campground on Hwy 25/70E might begin to take water. A few low-lying riverfront cabins between Newport and Del Rio might begin to take water. At 16.0 feet, The campground and the other low-lying cabins are more substantially impacted. Flooding of backyards begins along River Chase Trail. At 24.0 feet, Flood of record. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 9:00 AM EDT Friday the stage was 14.4 feet. - Bankfull stage is 10.0 feet. - Recent Activity. The maximum river stage in the 24 hours ending at 9:00 AM EDT Friday was 14.4 feet. - Forecast. The river is expected to rise to a crest of 23.0 feet tomorrow morning. It will then fall below flood stage Monday afternoon. - Flood stage is 10.0 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood