MFRD made it through the night with no weather-related incidents overnight Wednesday, Fe. 20. All closed roads in the city limits have now reopened.
EARLIER
The City of Murfreesboro's Emergency Operations Center reported that it responded to no weather-related responses or requests for mutual aid Wednesday, Feb. 20. Rutherford County was under a Flash Flood Warning and several city and county roads were closed or lined with high level water barrels. Those were:
City Roald Closures
475-980 Molloy Lane
Cherry Lane
Haley Road
College Street (from the Dog Park to Garrison Road)
County Closures
Stones River Slab
Vaught/Cripple Creek
County Farm/Elam
Elam Slab
Kedron Church
4300-Elam
W Jefferson/Powells Chapel
Blackman/Bass
Sulphur Springs/Shacklett
4966-5038 Poplarwood
1140-Block Walnut Grove Rd
Rehobath/Patterson
North Thompson
Swamp/Little Rock
Rutherford County Schools were closed two hours early on Wednesday and for the day on Thursday. City Schools did not close.
More rain coming
Most of Middle Tennessee, including Rutherford County, will continue under a Flash Flood Warning through at least Saturday.
Another storm system will bring waves of heavy rain across Middle Tennessee starting Thursday night and continuing through Saturday night. An additional 2-4 inches of rain with locally higher amounts are expected through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service's Nashville office.
Due to the recent excessive rain, soils are saturated and area rivers and creeks are full. Additional heavy rainfall will quickly cause flash flooding.
Street flooding will be a hazard for travelers. Low-lying and poor drainage areas will be at risk for flash flooding, as well as creeks and streams.
Stay clear!
City of Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation has closed all Greenways until further notice. Low head dams and Greenways are dangerous when flooded due to unknown debris and other hazards.
Fire crews are being sent out to monitor areas that are notorious for flooding.
The Emergency Operations Center (EOC) continues to monitor weather conditions/alerts, water levels over roads, street closures, and river levels at both the east and west forks of the Stones River.
Levels at present indicate that we are still well below the 10-year flood level river stage. Murfreesboro will likely only experience localized flooding.
Remember to report flooded streets and malfunctioning drainage systems in the city limits to the Street Department by calling 615-893-4380. Please notify Rutherford County EMA of issues in the county (615-898-7764). If you find yourself in an emergency situation (such as a stalled car in high water) please call 9-1-1 immediately.
More information will be released as it becomes available.
Remember #turnarounddontdrown!
EVEN EARLIER
In preparation for an ever-increasing amount of rainfall and flooding in several areas of the city and county, the City of Murfreesboro will be activating the Emergency Operations Center (EOC), located at the Murfreesboro Police Department Headquarters, beginning at 9:30 Wednesday morning.
EOC activation allows for a more rapid deployment of resources during significant weather events.
The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued an area flood warning for Rutherford County until noon. A flood warning means that rivers or stream flows are elevated, or ponding water in urban or other areas is imminent.
According to the United States Geological Survey gauge located on the east fork of the Stones River at Betty Ford Road, as of 8:00 a.m. Murfreesboro has received approximately 3.5 inches of rainfall in the last 72 hours. Additional rainfall is expected through Saturday night, with only a few reprieves.
Citizens and visitors of Murfreesboro are urged to be cautious in areas of high and, in particular, flowing waters. “The old adage ‘Turn Around Don’t Drown’ sounds silly, but in truth, it’s very serious,” said Fire Rescue Chief Mark Foulks. “Even the smallest amounts of ponding and flooding waters can sweep vehicles off of the road.” The NWS reports that most flood deaths occur in vehicles. If you encounter a road that is submerged, turn around and take an alternative route.
Foulks also reminds “thrill seekers” that it is dangerous to play on or around the low head dams during and even following heavy rainfall. “We also caution people to stay away from flooded Greenway areas, as water may have crossed over some of those pathways,” he added.
To report high water or drainage systems that may be malfunctioning, or flooded roads within the city limits of Murfreesboro, you are urged to contact the City of Murfreesboro’s Street Department at 615-893-4380. Street Department Director Raymond Hillis said that the department has assigned all employees to clean and check every curb inlet within the city limits. “We also have additional crews prepared to respond and repair and reported problem areas that may cause flooding to street and property dwellings,” said Hillis.
For county roads issues, please notify Rutherford County Emergency Management Agency at 615-898-7764.
Many news outlets are reporting that by the end of the month, this may be the wettest February on record for Nashville and surrounding areas. “Our main objective is to keep you safe,” said Foulks. “Please continue to monitor the weather and head warnings as they arise, and if you find yourself in a water emergency such as a car stalled in high water, call 9-1-1 immediately.”