National Weather Service Raw Text Product

584 
NOUS42 KGSP 191126
PNSGSP
NCZ033-048>050-052-053-059-062>065-501>510-SCZ002-003-192330-

Public Information Statement
National Weather Service Greenville-Spartanburg SC
726 AM EDT Tue May 19 2020

...INCREASED THREAT OF LANDSLIDES AND DEBRIS FLOWS ACROSS THE
MOUNTAINS AND FOOTHILLS THROUGH MID WEEK...

Periods of heavy rain are likely across parts of the mountains and
foothills of North Carolina, especially along and near the Blue 
Ridge Escarpment, through Wednesday night. The heavy rain may 
result in significant flooding along creeks and streams.

Although the weather has been relatively dry this month up until
this point, a threat of landslides still exists because of the 
relatively wet conditions this past winter. Rainfall amounts of 
five to ten inches are possible over the period from today through
Wednesday night along and near the Blue Ridge Escarpment. 
Rainfall of five inches or more in similar storms has been 
associated with the increased risk of landslides and rockslides.

Landslides, including fast-moving debris flows consisting of 
water, mud, falling rocks, trees, and other large debris,
are most likely within small valleys that drain steep slopes.
Landslides are powerful and potentially deadly, capabale of
washing out roads, bridges, and homes. People living in areas
prone to landslides should be aware of the danger and be prepared
to act. 

Here are recommended actions to consider both ahead of the storm
and when the heavy rain begins.

Before the Storm: 

1. If you live on a mountainside or in a cove at the base of a
mountain, especially near a stream, be ready to leave in advance
of the storm or as quickly as possible should rising water,
moving earth, or rocks threaten. Identify a sturdy shelter on
higher ground such as a well-built home, church or school.

2. Stay alert. Monitor NOAA Weather Radio or local media for
possible flash flood warnings. 

During the Storm:

1. Avoid driving near steep slopes or crossing stream
valleys, particularly at night. Never try to drive across a
flooded road. Potential hazards to drivers include washed-out
roads, bridges, and falling or flowing large debris. Turn
Around, Don't Drown!

2. Immediately move away from steep slopes and small streams in
steep valleys. Seek refuge on higher ground away from streams, 
preferably in a sturdy shelter.

3. Stay alert. Many landslide fatalities occur when people are
sleeping. Be aware that short intense bursts of rainfall are most
likely to cause landslides. 

4. Keep tuned to NOAA Weather Radio or local media for the latest
warnings and statements regarding this potentially dangerous
weather event. 

More information on safety and preparedness for potential
landslides can be found at:landslides.usgs.gov/learn/prepare.php

For general flood safety and preparation advice, please visit:
www.ready.gov/floods

Additional weather information and updates on this potentially
dangerous weather situation can be found at:
www.weather.gov/gsp

$$

MOORE