With the expected heavy rains, city employees are working to ensure the well-being and safety of its citizens by delivering excellent municipal services.
Citizens should note:
- Sally has weakened to a tropical depression and will continue to track toward the northeast. Periods of moderate to heavy rainfall are expected through early Friday. Rain will continue to lift north and expand in coverage ahead of the Sally circulation. The more intense rain bands closer to the center of circulation will lift into the area later this afternoon. Lingering rain will become light Friday morning and begin to diminish as the heaviest rains move offshore.
- The current forecast is for widespread 3-5 inches of rain during the next 48 hours, with localized higher totals (up to eight inches). Much of the state is under a moderate risk for excessive rainfall that will likely lead to numerous flash floods. A Flash Flood Watch remains in effect for most of the state through Friday evening.
- Heavy rain will run off into larger streams, and then into mainstem rivers, resulting in river flooding on Friday and into the weekend. Most rivers are forecast to peak during the weekend and continue to recede through early next week. River forecasts will change based on how much and where the heaviest rains fall.
- Sally is expected to bring primarily rain to the region, but wind gusts 20-25 mph are possible through Friday.
- City of Rocky Mount Fire Department Battalion chiefs will monitor flood-prone areas.
- The Rocky Mount Fire Department’s Swift Water Rescue Team will monitor conditions and is available for activation if necessary.
- Public Works staff will continue monitoring drains for blockages. Barricades are stocked on trailers, and crews are ready to respond to any reported flooding.
Residents can stay informed on the latest updates via rockymountnc.gov or the city’s various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and Nextdoor.
Source: Jessie Nunery, City of Rocky Mount