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With More Rain Coming, Downpours Leave Middle Tennessee Roads Underwater

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A Rutherford County Sheriff's deputy blocks the intersection of Sulphur Springs and Shacklett Road. Credit: courtesy RCSOvia flickr
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Heavy downpours swelled creeks and inundated low-lying areas around Middle Tennessee on Wednesday, leading dozens of roads to become impassable.

Nearly 50 roads were at least partially under water in Williamson County (see an updated list
here) — more than emergency personnel could even block off.

“Whether there’s a cone in front of it or not, whether there’s a sheriff’s department officer blocking the road or not, don’t pass the road,” says Williamson County EMA spokesperson Healther Bleam.

At least a half-dozen roads in Rutherford County also closed or became impassable, according to emergency responders (who are keeping a running list
here).

Davidson County emergency responders closed six roads,
mostly in South Nashville.

There have been remarkably few swift water rescues, but one in Davidson County did expose how deceiving the high water can be.
WSMV reported two stranded cars near Nolensville Road. The fire truck that went in after them ended up stalling out too, forcing a second truck to come and assist.

The unseasonably heavy rainfall led several school districts to release students early Wednesday afternoon, including in Rutherford and Williamson counties. Metro Nasvhille Public Schools cancelled all after-school activities.

This storm system is moving east, but more rain is predicted this weekend, which may make this the wettest February on record.

Emergency officials say they will continue to monitor flashflooding and barricade roads as needed. But they do not expect severe flooding to occur.

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Blake Farmer, Host, This Is Nashville

Blake Farmer is the host of “This Is Nashville,” the flagship weekday show of Nashville Public Radio. Previously, Blake spent 16 years at WPLN News, serving as host, editor and news director. Before a two-year radio hiatus with a Nashville-based healthcare company, Blake was one of the country’s most prolific healthcare audio journalists. He produced stories for both local and national programs, extending the reach of his reporting through a partnership with KFF Health News. Outside of work, Blake can be found running or biking on roads that other Nashvillians consider too busy for such activities. So far, he has always made it home to his wife of 20 years and two children.

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