TVA Taking Early Action to Prepare for Heavy Rainfall this Weekend

Even if Hurricane Joaquin doesn’t directly strike the Valley, it could still have a major impact on the area. The Tennessee Valley Authority is already taking steps to deal with the anticipated runoff from heavy rains over the weekend.

Current forecast models show some areas along the eastern side of TVA’s territory could receive several inches of rain by Sunday. That rainfall will find its way into streams and rivers that feed into TVA reservoirs, which could rapidly rise above their current levels.

In preparation, TVA river management engineers are currently lowering reservoir levels to provide additional storage for the expected rainfall amounts. Once the storm passes, engineers will then slowly move water downstream using both generating turbines and spillway gates.

Property and boat owners should be aware of the potential for rapidly changing lake levels over the next several days and take any necessary precautions.

Details on lake levels and forecasts for specific reservoirs across TVA’s integrated river management system can be found on TVA’s website and on the TVA Lake Info smartphone app.