Hazel Creek is full and flowing as it rushes past the old Laudermilk mill on GA 197 South in Mt. Airy. (photo/Paco Alvarado))
Habersham County has been pounded by rain during the last two weeks but fortunately, so far, the county has weathered the deluge with relative ease.
Habersham has received up to 8 inches of rain in the past two weeks — nearly half of that has fallen since Tuesday when subtropical depression Alberto settled over the region. Streets flooded in Helen in neighboring White County and downstream in Habersham County’s Fairview Community the Chattahoochee River overran its banks.
Reports of flooding turned up “nothing,” according to Habersham County Emergency Management Agency Director Lynn Smith.
“We had one tree fall bringing power lines down but no damage to structures or injuries to folks. We have been very lucky,” Smith says.
As of early Thursday, there were no particular trouble spots reported in the county. Smith says Habersham EMA continues to monitor the situation and is “keeping in touch with surrounding counties.”
The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Advisory until 6:15 p.m. Thursday for northeastern Habersham and the northern parts of Franklin, Stephens, and Hart counties. A Flood Advisory also is in effect for west central Anderson County in nearby South Carolina.
A Flash Flood Watch for Habersham County remains in effect through Friday morning.
Smith says more rain could cause problems. “The ground is already saturated so trees may start falling if we have any type winds.”
Habersham County residents should remain vigilant for possible flooding and falling trees.
“If you see water, don’t try to cross, turn around, don’t drown. Stay safe, slow down,” Smith advises. She adds, “There will probably be more water than is expected and (that) can cause wrecks. Be mindful of others as you venture out.
