Richmond Hill braces for potential flooding as Ogeechee River crest approaches
Nov 13, 2024
RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WSAV) — There are concerns about high water and potential flooding in Richmond Hill Wednesday morning. Many areas are on high alert and are still recovering from flooding after Tropical Storm Debby.The potential for flooding Wednesday comes as city officials say the Ogeechee River is likely to crest today after recent heavy rainfall. One area already seeing flooding water is the neighborhood around Rushing Street in Richmond Hill.
The greatest Ogeechee River height reading since Tropical Storm Debby, which created a peak of 17.97 feet, was at 13.2 feet as of Monday night near Eden. Now a crest of 14.5 feet is predicted by the National Water Prediction Service for Wednesday night.
Based on ranking flooding, NOAA has major flooding at 16 feet, whereas moderate flooding is at 14 feet. If the predicted crest increases by 1.5 feet, it will be declared as major flooding. Typically, the Ogeechee River at high tide the river is just under 4 feet.
Flooding from Ogeechee River is predicted to possibly impact residents in Richmond Hill on Wednesday. The city said it does not expect residents to experience flooding in their homes but prepare to see pools of water develop in their streets, and yards.
The city says some low-lying areas near the river will see flooding, and it could impact the ability to travel. Rising river levels are the greatest concern right now, along with street ponding.
City leaders say they have pumps ready to go as soon as the water level is high enough. They explain that for large volumes of water to be transported effectively, there must be sufficient water flowing in the direction of the pump's intake. Too low of a water level prevents the pump from sucking in enough water to work properly and might potentially cause harm.
Sandbags are also available for residents at the former GDOT lot on Timber Trail Road in Richmond Hill. The city expects flooded streets to be possible until Friday or Saturday as it may take a few tide cycles before the water recedes.
It should be noted that Bryan County has not canceled school this morning.
In the meantime, many are still recovering from damage left behind during the last flood. The flood warning from officials didn't offer much consolation for residents who are still recuperating from the most recent storm flooding where the city saw significant flooding in August due to Tropical Storm Debby where hundreds of residents were impacted.
"It's devastating, especially like living in a community where, you know, it's mostly empty because everyone had to evacuate and rebuild their homes. Um, most we can do is help them out, whatever we can," said Timothy Evans, a resident of Richmond Hill.
Residents are urged to move cars to higher ground if they can. WSAV spoke to Bryan County officials as well, who said they're ready to help where they can.