James Matthews
Public Affairs & Operations Officer
Washington County Remains Under Flood Watch as Rain Continues Through the Weekend
The community should pay close attention to changing conditions throughout the weekend, especially near creeks, streams, low-lying areas and roads that commonly flood and never enter any flooded roadways.
(JOHNSON CITY, Tenn.) July 11, 2026 – Washington County remains under a Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) through 2 a.m. Monday, July 13.
Rain continues to fall across the area, and more showers and thunderstorms are expected through Sunday evening. Some areas have already received several inches of rain, which means additional rainfall could lead to flooding.
The Washington County/Johnson City Emergency Management Agency is closely watching the weather and staying in contact with the National Weather Service and local public safety agencies.
The community should pay close attention to changing conditions throughout the weekend, especially near creeks, streams, low-lying areas and roads that commonly flood.
The National Weather Service uses information from weather radar, rain gauges, river and stream gauges, emergency crews and reports from the public to decide when an advisory, warning or emergency alert is needed.
A Flood Watch means flooding is possible and to be ready. It does not mean flooding is happening everywhere, but conditions could become dangerous. Keep checking the forecast and be ready to act if a warning is issued.
A Flood Advisory means minor flooding is happening or may happen soon. Use caution! Water may be covering low spots, drainage areas or some roads. Conditions may not be life-threatening, but everyone that must drive in an area should slow down, use caution and avoid flooded areas.
A Flood Warning means take action! Life threatening flooding is happening or is expected soon. Anyone within the warning area must away from creeks, streams and other flood-prone areas and go to higher ground if you are told to do so. Flash floods rise quickly, giving people very little time to react
A Flood Emergency is a very rare alert issued when catastrophic, life-threatening flash flooding is happening or will happen soon. This is the highest level of flood alert. Take immediate action to protect yourself and your family. Move to higher ground and follow all instructions from emergency officials. Do not wait to see the flooding before taking action.
Flood alerts issued by the National Weather Service may be shared through local television and radio stations, NOAA Weather Radio, weather apps, Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs).
Turn Around, Don’t Drown
Most flood deaths happen in vehicles. It only takes about 12 inches of moving water to carry away many cars. Never drive, walk or try to cross a flooded road.
It can be hard to tell how deep the water is or how fast it is moving. The road under the water may also be damaged or washed away. If water is covering the road, turn around and find another route. Never drive around a barricade.
Stay Informed
Everyone should closely monitor information from the National Weather Service, WCJCEMA and the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority throughout the weekend.
Do not rely on only one way to receive emergency information. Keep Wireless Emergency Alerts turned on for your phone and use another source, such as local television or radio, a trusted weather app or NOAA Weather Radio.
Keep phones and other devices charged. Check on family members, neighbors and anyone who may need help receiving or understanding emergency information.
If a warning or emergency alert is issued for your area, take it seriously and act right away.