Local officials are urging residents to use caution when traveling tonight and early tomorrow morning. Forecasters from the National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Watch on Monday and said the watch will be in effect until 8 a.m. tomorrow morning as heavy rains are expected for much of the west Georgia area.
“We are watching several different flood-prone areas around the county to make sure we stay on top of any flooding that would cause hazards to drivers,” said Carroll County Emergency Management Association Director Tim Padgett.
Padgett said Public Safety workers have barricaded some roadways throughout the county that have posed a danger to motorists during previous flood events in recent years.
As of 7 p.m. this evening, two county roads have been close due to flood damage. Officials have closed Whitman Road in Bowdon and Detweiler Road in Temple after culverts were damaged along both roadways on Tuesday.
“We want to make sure people don’t take any risks when driving through areas that have experienced flooding,” said Padgett. “If you can’t see the road, or can’t see the lines on the road due to flood waters, don’t try to cross it. Sometimes when a roadway is submerged, the road can wash away, and drivers don’t realize it.”
Padgett offers a tip to Carroll County drivers who may encounter flooded roadways.
“Turn around, don’t drown,” said Padgett. “That’s a saying we always use that can save your life in the event of flooding.”
Meteorologists expect heavy rains to continue throughout the night and into tomorrow morning. Padgett noted that residents should alert public safety if they notice any flooding around homes or roadways.
“We want people to pay attention to problem areas that typically flood when we see heavy rains,” said Padgett. “If water starts to come into your home and get around electrical units, dial 911 immediately.”
