On Tuesday, April 25, 2017, Pitt County Emergency Management was notified by the National Weather Service (NWS), that several waterways within the County have the potential to crest above major flood stage by the end of the week. This comes as a result of several inches of rain received by much of the region, beginning on Saturday, April 22 and lasting throughout Monday, April 24, 2017.
In preparation of any potential impacts from flooding, Pitt County is closely monitoring current water level observations, as well as NWS crest height predictions. Pitt County Emergency Management is maintaining ongoing contact with officials from North Carolina Emergency Management and the National Weather Service, as well as several other partnering agencies and organizations at the local level.
AS OF THE TIME OF THIS RELEASE, current predictions indicate the Tar River will surpass the 19’ “Major Flood” stage by Friday, April 28, and later crest at 20.4’ on Sunday, April 30. Additionally, the Contentnea Creek expected to surpass major flood stage at the same time, with cresting predicted at 18’ on Sunday, April 30 as well. In comparison, during the flooding following Hurricane Matthew in October 2016, the Tar River crested at a height of 24.5’, while the Contentnea Creek crested at 24.1’.
Although high crest levels are predicted, significant uncertainty still remains as to what impacts to homes and business can be anticipated. Pitt County Emergency Management will continue to monitor the progress of water levels within the County over the coming days, and is prepared to activate any appropriate response efforts, once they are deemed necessary.
For the latest updates regarding potential effects as they develop, as well as Pitt County’s response, residents are encouraged to visit www.pittcountync.gov/flooding for more information. Information published at this page will also be posted to all Pitt County social media accounts, as well as aired on PittTv (Suddenlink cable channel 13).