Storms push creeks out of banks; flash flooding strands motorists near Bloomfield

NC GAZETTE / WBRT RADIO
STAFF REPORT

Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018 — The long line of thunderstorms that dumped heavy rain on Nelson County also pushed local creeks out of their banks, and caught a number of motorists by surprise late Monday night on Springfield Road between Bloomfield and the “y”.

The line of thunderstorms that passed through Nelson County caused localized flash flooding along creeks and many low-lying areas of the county. Some roadways were overwhelmed by the rain and left with ponding water, which made driving difficult.

Just before midnight Monday night, motorists on Springfield Road south of Bloomfield found themselves surround by rising waters as flash flooding conditions pushed the East Fork of Simpson Creek was out of its banks.

By about 11:48 p.m. Monday, Nelson County Dispatch began receiving 911 calls from motorists who were stranded due to the rapidly rising floodwaters. An 18-year-old woman whose car was stuck in high water climbed on top of her vehicle to await rescue. Other victims were advised to do the same and await rescuers as the rain continued to fall and the water continued to rise.

The Northeast Nelson Fire Department, the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, Nelson County EMS responded to the scene. The Bardstown Fire Department was requested to assist with water rescue equipment.

One driver was able to walk out of the flooded to where first-responders were waiting once the waters crested. First-responders rescued three or four others who remained stranded in high water. Once the water was low enough, the victims were transported to the Northeast Nelson Fire station in Bloomfield and offered aid by an EMS squad located there.

No injuries were reported.

First-responders were on the scene until about 2:05 a.m. Once the waters dropped low enough, the stranded vehicles left blocking the roadway were removed.

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