Another flood in Atlanta? Rain, rain go away!

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Another flood in Atlanta? Rain, rain go away!
October 13, 2009
Jackie Kass
Examiner.com

Many families are simply flood wary, but with the potential of 3-6 more inches of rain, residents are wondering if there will be another flood in Atlanta. As families continue to clean up after the historic flood that occurred three weeks ago, each raindrop causes increased anxiety over the possibility of yet another flood.

Azalea Rd. in Roswell was once again swallowed up by the Chattahoochee River yesterday, causing some roads leading into neighborhoods to become impassible.

The good news is that Atlanta will get a break from the rainfall today. The bad news is that we are in for another round of heavy rain beginning late tonight and continuing through the day on Thursday. For that reason, the National Weather Service has issued flood warnings through Wednesday night for the following counties: Forsyth, Fulton, Carroll, Coweta, Heard, Cobb, Douglas, Newton, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Walton.

What can families do in anticipation of even more rainfall? Remember the following lessons learned from the great flood three weeks ago:

* In a flood situation, water can rise at an alarming rate. Pay close attention to flash flood watches and warnings, and evacuate immediately if told to do so.
* Know the following terms: Flood Watch - Flooding possible in a certain designated area. Flood Warning - Flooding imminent or already reported.
* Never attempt to drive through water if you can’t tell how deep it is. The average automobile can be swept off the road in 12” of moving water. 80% of flood-related deaths occur inside a vehicle.
* Do not attempt to cross a stream where water is above your knees. When in doubt, don't try it.
* Stay away from drains and ditches.
* Purchase a weather alert radio.
* Organize an evacuation plan and establish an emergency meeting place should your family get separated.
* Park, lock and leave vehicles at a higher elevation.
* Never enter buildings surrounded by floodwaters.
* Stay away from downed power lines and electrical wires.