Knoxville underwater: "Turn around, don't drown"

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) declared a State of Emergency this weekend due to the amount of flooding across the state. Feb. 23 marked the ninth day of rain in Knoxville. Many roads and highways across the city are under duress and closed.

Road closures include: Third Creek road at Middlebrook Pike in Bearden, Kingston Pike at Cedar Bluff Road and Kingston Pike at Ebenezer road. Flooding on Interstates 75 and 40 have also been reported.

“98 roads are currently closed due to flooding inside the City of Knoxville. This number is growing as rain continues to fall,” Knoxville Police tweeted on Feb. 23. “Please don’t drive past road closure signs.”

Flooding has caused instances of cars and roads being submerged in water, animals being left out and trees blocking roads. According to Knox News, the Tennessee Department of Transportation crew will work a 24-hour shift through Sunday.

Sevier County opened shelters on Saturday for those unable to get home due to mud and landslides. There have also been reports of rocks sliding on Alcoa Highway.

While Sunday’s skies are much sunnier, Knoxville residents are still advised to watch for flooded areas and to “turn around, don’t drown.”

The University of Tennessee has a plan for severe weather conditions in the case of thunder, lightening, high winds, winter storms and flash floods. UT advises students to postpone outdoor activities, be attentive to local weather conditions and to be careful when using electrical devices.

If you are dealing with a flood, refer to the following description on how to cope with the effects and navigate through the challenges that arise during such circumstances.

As of now, UT has not cancelled classes for students. Stay dry and stay safe, Vols!

This video shows flooding on Outlet Dr. in Hardin Valley, Tenn.

Edited by Kaitlin Flippo and Ciera Noe

Featured image by LouisvilleUSACE, courtesy of Creative Commons

Video by Jonathan Desai