* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE. Portions of southwest North Carolina, including the following areas, Cherokee and Clay and east Tennessee, including the following areas, Bledsoe, Blount Smoky Mountains, Bradley, Cocke Smoky Mountains, East Polk, Hamilton, Johnson, Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Northwest Monroe, Rhea, Sequatchie, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, Unicoi and West Polk. * WHEN. Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and some embedded thunderstorms can be expected at times today into Friday as Helene approaches. Periods of torrential rainfall are expected during this time which may lead to flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Flash Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE. Portions of east Tennessee, including the following areas, Anderson, Claiborne, Grainger, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, North Sevier, Northwest Blount, Northwest Carter, Northwest Cocke, Northwest Greene, Roane, Sullivan, Union and Washington TN and southwest Virginia, including the following areas, Lee, Russell, Scott VA, Washington VA and Wise. * WHEN. Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and some embedded thunderstorms can be expected at times today into Friday as Helene approaches. Periods of torrential rainfall are expected during this time which may lead to flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of south central and southeast Kentucky, including the following counties, in south central Kentucky, Laurel, McCreary and Whitley. In southeast Kentucky, Bell, Clay, Floyd, Harlan, Knott, Knox, Leslie, Letcher, Perry and Pike. * WHEN. Through Friday 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 some embedded thunderstorms will affect the area into Friday as Tropical System Helene approaches and interacts with a nearby stalled frontal boundary. Periods of heavy to, at times, torrential rainfall are expected from this, which may lead to incidents of flash flooding. Isolated mudslides will also be possible during this time.

* WHAT. Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of northeast Georgia, including the following area, Rabun, western North Carolina, including the following areas, Avery, Buncombe, Burke Mountains, Caldwell Mountains, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Macon, Madison, McDowell Mountains, Mitchell, Northern Jackson, Polk Mountains, Rutherford Mountains, Southern Jackson, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey, and upstate South Carolina, including the following areas, Greenville Mountains, Oconee Mountains and Pickens Mountains. * WHEN. Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in significant and damaging flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Areas that are not typically impacted by floodwaters may flood. Numerous landslides are possible in areas of steep terrain. A couple of large, damaging debris flows are possible. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall are expected due to the interaction of tropical moisture along a stationary front, followed by the passage of Tropical Storm Helene. Additional rainfall of 9 to 14 inches with locally higher amounts is expected along the entire length of the Blue Ridge Escarpment with widespread 4 to 8 inches expected across the remainder of the mountains. This has the potential to be an extremely rare event with dangerous catastrophic flash-flooding along numerous streams. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Spruce Pine * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 75 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 remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: The sustained wind should remain less than tropical storm force. Conditions may still be gusty. - PREPARE: Listen for any instructions from local officials. - ACT: Ensure emergency readiness should the forecast change. - REALIZED IMPACTS: Being Assessed - Little to no additional wind impacts expected. Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual wind impacts accordingly. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 3-6 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plans should still include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: Keep informed should additional weather alerts be needed. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Banner Elk * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 70 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 remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: The sustained wind should remain less than tropical storm force. Conditions may still be gusty. - PREPARE: Listen for any instructions from local officials. - ACT: Ensure emergency readiness should the forecast change. - REALIZED IMPACTS: Being Assessed - Little to no additional wind impacts expected. Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual wind impacts accordingly. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 6-10 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plans should still include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: Keep informed should additional weather alerts be needed. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Burnsville * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 70 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 remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plan for hazardous wind of equivalent tropical storm force. - PREPARE: Efforts to protect property should now be underway. Prepare for limited wind damage. - ACT: Act now to complete preparations 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 4-8 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: If your shelter is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes, prepare to relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Marshall * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 20-30 mph with gusts to 65 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 remained nearly steady 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 1-3 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: If your shelter is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes, prepare to relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

HLSGSP This product covers the western Carolinas and NE Georgia **HELENE TO BRING SIGNIFICANT FLASH FLOODING AND POSSIBLE HURRICANE FORCE WIND GUSTS TO THE WESTERN CAROLINAS AND NORTHEAST GEORGIA**** 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 260 miles south-southwest of Greenville/Spartanburg SC or about 310 miles south of Asheville NC - 31.2N 83.3W - Storm Intensity 90 mph - Movement North-northeast or 15 degrees at 26 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Hurricane Helene made landfall just before midnight Thursday in the Big Bend of Florida. Helene is currently over eastern Georgia. Significant, potentially catastrophic flash flooding and major to record mainstem river flooding is expected over portions of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia through this afternoon, especially along the Blue Ridge escarpment. Wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph with up to 80 mph across the higher ridge tops will be associated with Helene as the center of the storm tracks just west of the County Warning Area through this morning. The combination of saturated soils and strong wind gusts will result in widespread downed trees, leading to numerous power outages. Numerous landslides will occur across the mountains, with large, damaging debris flows or slope failures likely. Several brief tornadoes are also possible, mainly across the Piedmont. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * FLOODING RAIN: Protect against life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible devastating impacts across the North Carolina mountains, northeast Georgia, and Upstate South Carolina. 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. * WIND: Protect against dangerous wind having possible significant impacts across the western North Carolina mountains and northeast Georgia and the western Upstate South Carolina. Potential impacts in this area include: - Some damage to roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. A few buildings experiencing window, door, and garage door failures. Mobile homes damaged, especially if unanchored. Unsecured lightweight objects become dangerous projectiles. - Several large trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Several fences and roadway signs blown over. - Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. A few bridges, causeways, and access routes impassable. - Scattered power and communications outages, but more prevalent in areas with above ground lines. Also, protect against hazardous wind having possible limited impacts across the remainder of the western Carolinas. * TORNADOES: Protect against a dangerous tornado event having possible significant impacts across the eastern South Carolina Piedmont and the North Carolina Piedmont. Potential 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. Protect against a tornado event having possible limited impacts across the rest of the Piedmont and Foothills of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: Follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: Now is the time to complete all preparations to protect life and property in accordance with your emergency plan. Ensure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. If you are relocating to safe shelter, leave as early as possible. Allow extra time to reach your destination. Many roads and bridges will be closed once strong winds arrive. Check the latest weather forecast before departing and drive with caution. It is important to remain calm, informed, and focused during an emergency. Be patient and helpful with those you encounter. 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 a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter options. 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 Greenville-Spartanburg SC around 11 AM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Spruce Pine * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 70 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 remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: The sustained wind should remain less than tropical storm force. Conditions may still be gusty. - PREPARE: Listen for any instructions from local officials. - ACT: Ensure emergency readiness should the forecast change. - REALIZED IMPACTS: Being Assessed - Little to no additional wind impacts expected. Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual wind impacts accordingly. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 3-6 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plans should still include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: Keep informed should additional weather alerts be needed. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Banner Elk * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Tropical Storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 30-40 mph with gusts to 70 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 remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: The sustained wind should remain less than tropical storm force. Conditions may still be gusty. - PREPARE: Listen for any instructions from local officials. - ACT: Ensure emergency readiness should the forecast change. - REALIZED IMPACTS: Being Assessed - Little to no additional wind impacts expected. Community officials are now assessing the extent of actual wind impacts accordingly. * FLOODING RAIN - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Flood Watch is in effect - Peak Rainfall Amounts: Additional 4-8 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Plans should still include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: Keep informed should additional weather alerts be needed. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Marshall * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Below tropical storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 25-35 mph with gusts to 65 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 remained nearly steady 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: If your shelter is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes, prepare to relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* LOCATIONS AFFECTED - Burnsville * WIND - LATEST LOCAL FORECAST: Equivalent Tropical Storm force wind - Peak Wind Forecast: 30-40 mph with gusts to 70 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 remained nearly steady 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 3-6 inches, with locally higher amounts - 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 somewhat favorable for tornadoes - THREAT TO LIFE AND PROPERTY THAT INCLUDES TYPICAL FORECAST UNCERTAINTY IN TRACK, SIZE AND INTENSITY: Potential for a few tornadoes - The tornado threat has remained nearly steady from the previous assessment. - PLAN: Emergency plans should include the potential for a few tornadoes. - PREPARE: If your shelter is particularly vulnerable to tornadoes, prepare to relocate to safe shelter before hazardous weather arrives. - ACT: If a tornado warning is issued, be ready to shelter quickly. - POTENTIAL IMPACTS: Limited - The occurrence of isolated tornadoes can hinder the execution of emergency plans during tropical events. - A few places may experience tornado damage, along with power and communications disruptions. - Locations could realize roofs peeled off buildings, chimneys toppled, mobile homes pushed off foundations or overturned, large tree tops and branches snapped off, shallow-rooted trees knocked over, moving vehicles blown off roads, and small boats pulled from moorings. * FOR MORE INFORMATION: - https://readync.org

* WHAT. Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues. * WHERE. Portions of northeast Georgia, including the following area, Rabun, western North Carolina, including the following areas, Avery, Buncombe, Burke Mountains, Caldwell Mountains, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Macon, Madison, McDowell Mountains, Mitchell, Northern Jackson, Polk Mountains, Rutherford Mountains, Southern Jackson, Swain, Transylvania and Yancey, and upstate South Carolina, including the following areas, Greenville Mountains, Oconee Mountains and Pickens Mountains. * WHEN. Until 2 PM EDT this afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in significant and damaging flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Areas that are not typically impacted by floodwaters may flood. Numerous landslides are possible in areas of steep terrain. Multiple large, damaging debris flows are likely. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Bands of heavy rain will continue to move across the Watch area through the morning. Considerable to catastrophic flash flooding is ongoing across portions of the mountains this morning and additional rainfall of 3 to 6 inches with locally higher amounts is expected across much of the area. This is an extremely rare event with dangerous catastrophic and life threatening flash-flooding along numerous streams expected. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Southeast winds 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 60 mph. * WHERE. In North Carolina, Ashe and Watauga Counties. In Virginia, Grayson, Smyth, and Tazewell 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. 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. * WHERE. In Virginia, Buchanan and Dickenson Counties. In West Virginia, McDowell County. * 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. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of North Carolina, including the following areas, Alleghany NC, Ashe, Caswell, Rockingham, Stokes, Surry, Watauga, Wilkes and Yadkin, Virginia, including the following areas, Alleghany VA, Amherst, Appomattox, Bath, Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Buckingham, Campbell, Carroll, Charlotte, Craig, Floyd, Franklin, Giles, Grayson, Halifax, Henry, Montgomery, Patrick, Pittsylvania, Pulaski, Roanoke, Rockbridge, Smyth, Tazewell and Wythe, and southeast West Virginia, including the following areas, Eastern Greenbrier, Mercer, Monroe, Summers and Western Greenbrier. * WHEN. Through this evening. * IMPACTS. Extensive street flooding and flooding of creeks and rivers are possible. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - An additional 4 to 6 inches, and locally higher amounts, of rain will fall on already saturated soils. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of southwest Virginia, including the following counties, Buchanan and Dickenson and southern West Virginia, including the following county, McDowell. * WHEN. Through this evening. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Multiple rounds of heavy rainfall repeatedly training over the same areas could lead to flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of east Tennessee, including the following areas, Anderson, Claiborne, Grainger, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Knox, Loudon, North Sevier, Northwest Blount, Northwest Carter, Northwest Cocke, Northwest Greene, Roane, Sullivan, Union and Washington TN and southwest Virginia, including the following areas, Lee, Russell, Scott VA, Washington VA and Wise. * WHEN. Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and some embedded thunderstorms can be expected at times through Friday as the remnants of Helene approaches the region. Periods of torrential rainfall are expected during this time which may lead to flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE. Portions of southwest North Carolina, including the following areas, Cherokee and Clay and east Tennessee, including the following areas, Bledsoe, Blount Smoky Mountains, Bradley, Cocke Smoky Mountains, East Polk, Hamilton, Johnson, Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Northwest Monroe, Rhea, Sequatchie, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, Unicoi and West Polk. * WHEN. Through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS. Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - Widespread showers and some embedded thunderstorms can be expected at times through Friday as the remnants of Helene approaches the region. Periods of torrential rainfall are expected during this time which may lead to flash flooding. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

* WHAT. East winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts as high as 50 to 60 mph expected, with locally stronger gusts. * WHERE. Laurel, McCreary, Whitley, Clay, Floyd, Knott, Knox, Leslie, Perry, and Pike Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT Friday. * 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. For most locations, the strongest wind gusts are expected during the morning into the afternoon, though locations at and above 1500 feet may experience strong gusts prior to dawn.

* 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. Bell, Harlan, and Letcher Counties. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT Friday. * 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.

HLSGSP This product covers the western Carolinas and NE Georgia **HELENE TO BRING SIGNIFICANT FLASH FLOODING AND POSSIBLE HURRICANE FORCE WIND GUSTS TO THE WESTERN CAROLINAS AND NORTHEAST GEORGIA** 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 450 miles south-southwest of Greenville/Spartanburg SC or about 490 miles south-southwest of Asheville NC - 28.7N 84.3W - Storm Intensity 130 mph - Movement North-northeast or 25 degrees at 23 mph SITUATION OVERVIEW ------------------ Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall over the Florida Panhandle just before midnight and move quickly north through Georgia. Significant, potentially catastrophic flash flooding and major to record mainstem river flooding is expected over portions of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia this evening into early afternoon Friday, especially along the Blue Ridge escarpment. Wind gusts of 60 to 70 mph with up to 80 mph across the higher ridge tops will be associated with Helene as the center of the storm tracks just west of the County Warning Area tonight into Friday morning. The combination of saturated soils and strong wind gusts will result in widespread downed trees, leading to numerous power outages. Numerous landslides will occur across the mountains, with large, damaging debris flows or slope failures likely. Several brief tornadoes are also possible, mainly across the Piedmont. POTENTIAL IMPACTS ----------------- * FLOODING RAIN: Protect against life-threatening rainfall flooding having possible devastating impacts across the North Carolina mountains, northeast Georgia, and Upstate South Carolina. 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. * WIND: Protect against dangerous wind having possible significant impacts across the western North Carolina mountains and northeast Georgia and the western Upstate South Carolina. Potential impacts in this area include: - Some damage to roofing and siding materials, along with damage to porches, awnings, carports, and sheds. A few buildings experiencing window, door, and garage door failures. Mobile homes damaged, especially if unanchored. Unsecured lightweight objects become dangerous projectiles. - Several large trees snapped or uprooted, but with greater numbers in places where trees are shallow rooted. Several fences and roadway signs blown over. - Some roads impassable from large debris, and more within urban or heavily wooded places. A few bridges, causeways, and access routes impassable. - Scattered power and communications outages, but more prevalent in areas with above ground lines. Also, protect against hazardous wind having possible limited impacts across the remainder of the western Carolinas. * TORNADOES: Protect against a dangerous tornado event having possible significant impacts across the eastern South Carolina Piedmont and the North Carolina Piedmont. Potential 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. Protect against a tornado event having possible limited impacts across the rest of the Piedmont and Foothills of the western Carolinas and northeast Georgia. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS ---------------------------------- * EVACUATIONS: Follow the advice of local officials. * OTHER PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION: Now is the time to complete all preparations to protect life and property in accordance with your emergency plan. Ensure you are in a safe location before the onset of strong winds or possible flooding. Keep 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. 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 a Tornado Warning is issued for your area, be ready to shelter quickly, preferably away from windows and in an interior room not prone to flooding. If driving, scan the roadside for quick shelter options. 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 Greenville-Spartanburg SC around 5 AM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.

* WHAT. Southeast winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts up to 80 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 PM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Be prepared for prolonged power outages

* WHAT. East winds 20 to 35 mph with gusts up to 65 mph. * WHERE. Portions of East Tennessee and southwest Virginia. * WHEN. Until 8 PM EDT /7 PM CDT/ Friday. * IMPACTS. Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. Be prepared for prolonged power outages.

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

Periods of moderate to heavy rainfall will continue through tonight as Hurricane Helene moves into the southeast U.S. With saturated ground from previous rainfall, creeks and streams will remain elevated or above bank full tonight. * WHAT. Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is expected. * WHERE. Portions of southwest North Carolina, including the following counties, Cherokee and Clay, east Tennessee, including the following counties, Blount, Carter, Claiborne, Cocke, Grainger, Greene, Hamblen, Hancock, Hawkins, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Loudon, Monroe, Polk, Sevier, Sullivan, Unicoi, Union and Washington, and southwest Virginia, including the following counties and independent cities, City of Bristol, City of Norton, Lee, Russell, Scott, Washington and Wise. * WHEN. Until 500 AM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS. Numerous roads remain closed due to flooding. Streams continue to rise due to excess runoff from earlier rainfall. Expect many areas of slow moving or standing water. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 435 PM EDT, Flooding is already occurring in the warned area. - Additional rainfall amounts of 1 to 3 inches are expected in much of the warned area through tonight. Some locations in the mountains and southwest North Carolina may receive an additional 3 to 6 inches of rainfall through tonight. - Some locations that will experience flooding include. Knoxville, Johnson City, Kingsport, Morristown, Maryville, Bristol Tn, Bristol Va, Greeneville, Sevierville, Elizabethton, Alcoa, Abingdon, Jefferson City, Newport, Erwin, Rogersville, Norton, Gatlinburg, Lebanon and Wise. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood

The Flood Warning continues for the following rivers in Tennessee. Nolichucky River At Embreeville TN affecting Washington, Unicoi and Greene Counties. For the Nolichucky River. including Embreeville TN. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHAT. Minor flooding is forecast. * WHERE. Nolichucky River at Embreeville TN. * WHEN. From Friday morning to Saturday evening. * IMPACTS. At 8.5 feet, KOA campground impacts increase as water flows through portions a little further in. A narrowing of the channel just downstream from the campground might elevate stream height in the campground during higher flows due to a damming effect. At 9.5 feet, Low spots along Little Germany Road will begin to flood. At 11.0 feet, The main camping level of the KOA campground is covered by water. At 11.5 feet, Property at Bumpus Cove Road and Little Germany Road floods. At 12.0 feet, Pasture land around the Highway 107 bridge floods. The channel narrows at the bridge just downstream of the gauge, which may elevate the river level at the gauge during higher flows due to damming effect. At 13.0 feet, Portions of AJ Willis Road will flood. At 14.0 feet, Back yards of riverside homes along Bumpus Cove Road take substantial water. At 16.0 feet, Water reaches the pad of the train car at KOA Campground. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS. - At 4:15 PM EDT Thursday the stage was 9.0 feet. - Bankfull stage is 7.0 feet. - Forecast. The river is expected to rise above flood stage late Friday morning to a crest of 15.5 feet early Saturday morning. It will then fall below flood stage early Saturday afternoon. - Flood stage is 12.0 feet. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood