By Marla Jones, Managing Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

DeKALB COUNTY, Ala. — At this week’s meeting of the DeKalb County Commission, DeKalb County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) Director Anthony Clifton delivered an update regarding hazardous flooding in the area.

According to the National Weather Service in Huntsville, total rainfall amounts are currently upwards of 2.5 inches with additional rainfall of up to three inches. 

Flash flooding, river flooding, and mudslides remain possible along with high winds that could take down trees and power lines in already saturated ground. 

The impacts of flooding in DeKalb County include localized mudslides as well as rising rivers, which are already swollen to capacity. 

Clifton has kept a close watch on flooding across the area, having bus drivers drive their routes to ensure student safety and find alternate routes where rising water is a problem.

“As it stands right now, we will have all of our personnel, Sheriff’s Office personnel, rescue squads, volunteer firemen on the scene,” said Clifton. “With every drop running off, the ground is completely saturated, but the good news is that we have good drainage.” 

Earlier in the week, the DeKalb County Road Department closed portions of county roads 70, 174, 112, 616, and Wright Road/678 due to flood-related issues. DeKalb County Schools, along with Jackson County Schools, Cornerstone Christian Academy, and Fort Payne City Schools, acted under a two-hour delay on Tuesday because of extreme rain and potentially hazardous road conditions. 

“During this weather...everybody in the emergency response community has really come together,” said Clifton.

More rain is expected to fall next week, and Southern Torch will continue to update our audience on any and all weather-related concerns.