Union County EMA Urges Flood Preparedness After Assisting Fannin County Response

After major flooding struck McCaysville and parts of Fannin County last week, Union County Emergency Management Agency (UCEMA) is reminding residents that similar events can happen anywhere and that preparation is essential.

Heavy thunderstorms dumped large amounts of rain in a concentrated area, producing significant runoff and widespread flooding. UCEMA personnel responded to assist Fannin County with rescue operations over several days during the event.

“Flooding events such as these can happen anywhere and we in Union County were lucky. However, we must always be prepared,” UCEMA stated. Officials are encouraging all Union County residents to learn how to prepare for potential flooding before the next storm arrives.

Key preparedness steps include staying informed, creating a household flood action plan, assembling a Ready or Go kit, and discussing the plan with every member of the household. Families should decide in advance when to leave home, where to go, and what to take with them.

One of the primary ways to stay informed is through the RAVE alert system. RAVE delivers severe weather and flooding warnings from the National Weather Service to registered users shortly after the alerts are issued. Residents who have not yet signed up are strongly encouraged to create an account and set their notification preferences at tinyurl.com/UnionRave.

In the event of a rapid evacuation during flash flooding, a portable Go kit can make a critical difference. The kit should contain the same essential supplies found in a home Ready kit, plus copies of important insurance documents, cash, local maps, blankets, and toiletries.

Drivers are also reminded never to attempt to drive through floodwaters. The slogan “Turn Around, Don’t Drown” is more than a catchy phrase — just two feet of moving water can sweep away a full-sized vehicle. Pedestrians face similar dangers; as little as six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet.

UCEMA notes that these are only a few of the core flood-safety principles. Residents are urged to research additional guidance and take concrete steps now. More information and resources are available at ready.gov/floods.