Authorities are warning outdoor enthusiasts to steer clear of Lakes Tugalo and Yonah for at least the next two days. The National Weather Service reports the Tallulah River has reached major flood stage at Tugalo Dam. All dam gates are open and the Rabun County Sheriff’s Office warns flooding downstream will cause flooding below Yonah Dam.
The sheriff’s office issued a New Year’s Day alert warning, “This will be a high water event. Potential is for hikers, boaters, and fishermen to be swept away if they are on or near the water.”
The alert instructs the public to refrain from boating, hiking, or fishing on either Tugalo or Yonah Lakes for at least the next 48 hours.
