COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) – The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has confirmed that Walters Dam, also known as Waterville Dam, remains intact, refuting earlier claims of a catastrophic failure. TEMA cited information from Duke Energy, the dam’s owner.
This clarification comes about an hour after Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis reported a "catastrophic failure" at the dam, prompting an immediate evacuation notice for downtown Newport. In a Facebook post, Mathis urged residents to evacuate, but both he and TEMA continue to stand by the evacuation order.
Flooding and Rising Water Levels
The evacuation was initiated as heavy rains from the remnants of Hurricane Helene caused widespread flooding in Cocke County, particularly near the Pigeon River and French Broad River. According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), both rivers, typically below five feet, had risen significantly by late evening: the Pigeon River reached 27.33 feet at 9 p.m., and the French Broad River stood at 23.31 feet at 9:45 p.m.
Duke Energy’s Update
Duke Energy issued a statement, confirming that all gates at the Waterville Dam are open and functioning as expected. The company assured the public that the dam and its floodgates were operating normally despite historic rainfall from Hurricane Helene. Duke Energy advised those living in flood-prone areas to exercise caution, stay informed, and follow emergency notifications from local authorities.
Dam’s Risk Classification
The National Inventory of Dams lists Walters Dam as "high" for potential hazards, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring. Despite the current situation, TEMA and emergency responders remain vigilant, with resources fully engaged in water rescues and evacuation efforts.
Governor’s Response and Rescue Efforts
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee acknowledged the severe weather and flooding conditions across East Tennessee, urging residents to heed local guidance. Governor Lee and his wife, Maria, offered prayers for those affected by the storm.
Cocke County Sheriff CJ Ball reported over 50 rescue attempts without any fatalities. However, the flooding has resulted in the loss of critical emergency equipment, including a fire truck, a rescue squad vehicle, and seven sheriff’s office cruisers.
Emergency Shelters and Additional Concerns
Two emergency shelters have been established: the Newport Community Center for those north of Wilton Springs and the Liberty Church in Cosby for residents south of the area. Additionally, TEMA has provided a list of emergency shelters across the state.
Out of caution, the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) issued a Condition Yellow for the Nolichucky Dam in Greene County, indicating that the dam is nearing its threshold for managing floodwaters, though TVA officials stressed that the dam remains structurally sound.
ayor Mathis has declared a state of emergency for Cocke County as emergency operations continue in the face of ongoing flooding concerns.
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