Mitchell area waterways forecast to crest well above flood stage

Two Mitchell area waterways are rising as a result of recent rains and melting snow. National Weather Service hydrologist Mike Gillispie says Firesteel Creek at Mount Vernon is currently in moderate flood stage. “The crest that we’re looking at is probably going to be fifteen and a half (feet) on late Sunday or Monday, “Gillispie said. Flood stage is eight-feet.

The James River at Mitchell is just below major flood stage. “I’d say we’re going to be in that twenty-three and a half to twenty-four foot range for a crest,” said Gillispie. “It’ll probably be middle of next week, either Tuesday or Wednesday.” Flood stage is 17 feet.

Gillispie is advising property owners along the waterways to prepare for potential flooding early.