Flash Flood Possible for Lawrenceville, North Georgia

The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for the metro area including Lawrenceville.

The forecast calls for periods of heavy rain this weekend with rainfall amounts as much as two inches.

More from the National Weather Service:

• Rainfall amounts of .25 to .50 inches have already occurred over extreme north Georgia since 6 p.m. on Thursday
• Rainfall amounts around 4 inches are expected over central Georgia. The Watch time period is for the first round of heavy rain expected for the weekend.
• A second round of potentially heavy rain may add another 1 to 2 inches over the Watch area Sunday night into Monday.
• Localized Flash Flooding will be possible if the heavy rain repeatedly moves over the same area. Also, storm drains, ditches and low lying areas may become quickly clogged with debris and cause extensive street flooding.
• Widespread minor flooding of the larger creeks or rivers is most liely to occur with the expected storm total rainfall amounts. This would include the Chattachoochee River

What to do in case of a flash flood:

If you have to drive where there is a potential for flash flooding, please keep the following in mind.

• Six inches of water will reach the bottom of most passenger cars causing loss of control and possible stalling.
• A foot of water will float many vehicles.
• Two feet of rushing water can carry away most vehicles including sport utility vehicles (SUV’s) and pick-ups.
• Do not attempt to drive through a flooded road. The depth of water is not always obvious. The road bed may be washed out under the water, and you could be stranded or trapped.
• Do not drive around a barricade. Barricades are there for your protection. Turn around and go the other way.
• Do not try to take short cuts. They may be blocked. Stick to designated evacuation routes.
• Be especially cautious driving at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.

Remember, a flash flood is not something that takes a long time to develop. This is an event that happens quickly. If you are driving and the road has water over it, you need to remember this simple saying: “Turn Around – Don’t Drown.” Never drive on a road with water covering it and never drive around barriers blocking a flooded road or it just may cost you your life.

Source: Better Business Bureau