West Tennessee Affected by Heavy Rainfall, Flooding

TRI-COUNTIES (February 17) — Heavy rains and flooding swept through West Tennessee and much of the Southeast on Saturday, February 15. Now, the National Weather Service is predicting another weather challenge—heavy snowfall of three to five inches—from Tuesday noon to Wednesday noon.

The extreme weather caps off a turbulent week in West Tennessee, which saw rain, snow, tornadoes, and even an earthquake with its epicenter in Jackson, Tenn.

Carroll County EMA Director Trevor Foster stated, “the area has experienced excessive rainfall following this past weekend’s storm. While there have been no reports of significant damage, flooding impacted travel throughout the area. A sincere thank you to the Carroll County Highway Department, TDOT, and emergency personnel for their dedication to keeping our county safe. While we were fortunate to avoid significant damage, some of our neighboring communities were not as lucky. Please keep those affected in your thoughts and prayers as they recover. As we transition from heavy rainfall and tornadic activity to bitter cold temperatures, I urge everyone to begin preparing now for the frigid conditions ahead.”

Roads Closed

Carroll County: Clyde Road, Grooms Road Bruceton side, Roundhouse Road (Bruceton), Main Street / Forrest Ave. (McKenzie), Smith Street / Carroll Street (McKenzie), Buena Vista / Cotton Lane (Bridge Area), Highway 190 / Oak Grove Road (Trezevant), Fry Road, Ephesus Church Road, Robinson Levee, Buena Vista Rd., Mt. Zion Church Rd., Highway 77 and 219, Roundhouse Road / Bruceton Vale Rd., Mayo Bottom - Highway 22 between McKenzie and Huntingdon. TDOT reported on Monday that Highway 22 at Mayo Bottom has reopened.

Henry County: N. Poplar between Greer St. and Guthrie Rd, Lone Oak between Hamlin and Winding Way.

In Obion County, Rives in Obion County is flooded after a levee on the Obion River was breached, water rescues were necessary as emergency teams from west Tennessee assisted.

Tornado warnings were issued Saturday evening, prompting Bethel University Library and the Carroll County Sheriff’s Department to open certified storm shelters. An EF-2 tornado with 115 mph winds was reported near Bradford, causing damage to homes and downing trees.

As West Tennessee braces for another round of winter weather, residents are urged to stay alert, exercise caution on the roads, and prepare for freezing conditions.