KEMA issues urgent warning for East Knox Co. [Video]

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Based on forecasting from the Tennessee Valley Authority River Forecast Center, the Knoxville Emergency Management Agency has issued an urgent notice to residents in communities along the French Broad River. 

This urgent warning is for East Knox County regarding potential flooding due to increasing the release of swell water from the Douglas Dam, authorities said. 

“The release of water is necessary to maintain the integrity of the dam as water flows downstream from affected areas in Northeast Tennessee,” authorities said. “Douglas Dam is currently at 55,000 cfs discharge.” 

The release of water is planned to bring the increase to 66,000 cfs and is estimated to be maintained for two to three days. During this time, the French Broad River is projected to rise two to two and a half feet. 

officials said residents …