The National Weather Service has placed Cherokee County in a *Slight to Moderate Risk* for severe weather starting late Saturday afternoon. The potential exists for tornadoes, 60 mph damaging winds, and quarter size hail. Stay weather aware throughout the day.

The flood warning continues for the Coosa River at Weiss Dam, as of Saturday morning (February 23nd) the Weiss Lake level was at 568’ 8” – which is above Flood Stage and the level is expected to be near 570 feet by early Monday morning.

We measured 1.22 inches of rainfall at our studios on Saturday bringing the rainfall total to 9.88 inches over an eight day period.

According to Alabama Power, three units are currently running round the clock at the powerhouse and all six spillway gates are opened as well.

Remember, at these levels flooding of lakeside property occurs, affecting docks, boathouses and so on.

Also, we’ve had a number of reports of items appearing in the lake such as lawn furniture, a variety of children’s toys, bicycles – you name it.  Please take time to secure all items of this sort so you do not lose your property and it doesn’t go into the lake where it does become a navigational hazard. 

These items have to be removed so as not to present a danger to others – and that – in turn, takes valuable time away from marine patrol officers’ other duties and activities.

As we’ve mentioned, this type of weather system also affects travel.  Surface soil conditions are already saturated and much of the rainfall will run off quickly, filling all low lying areas, ditches, and creeks.  The local rivers and streams will also continue to rise due to excessive rainfall locally, and across upstream river basins.

Motorists should exercise caution during this type weather – watch for ponding, excessive run-off and water standing on the edge of the roadways.  Also be aware that debris may be on the roads from the fast-running water – that includes small to medium-sized rocks, tree limbs and even downed trees.  Give yourself extra time to get where you’re going safely.

THE FOLLOWING ROADS HAVE BEEN DEEMED IMPASSABLE

• County Road 144 (between Highway 68 & County Road 553 in Cedar Bluff)
• County Road 535 (Cedar Bluff)
• County Road 1008 (Island Subdivision in Cedar Bluff)
• A portion of County Road 432
• Portions of Park Street in Centre
• State Docks on Alabama Highway 9 North in Cedar Bluff
• Quail Run Drive (Off Sewell Ferry Road in Cedar Bluff)
• County Road 177 (Spring Garden)
• Cedar Street @ Reese Street in Cedar Bluff
• Dead End of Reese Street (Cedar Bluff)

PHOTOS TAKEN BY COLIN WHITE FROM HOKES BLUFF