Harpeth River crests at 28 feet; More rain expected

The Harpeth River in South Cheatham County crested at nearly 28 feet on April 3 following an evening of severe weather. 

The river rose quickly once the rain started, measuring just under four feet before the onset of the rain at 3 a.m. By 5:30 p.m., it had crested at 27.55 feet. 

The high waters caused ponding along many parts of town, including Highway 70 and Main Street. Many shops on the strip closed for the day Thursday as they tried to keep water out of their restaurants, studios and stores. The Town of Kingston Springs was forced to close both parks as the river rose into the parks, making them inaccessible. According to the town, the fence at the dog park was washed out, making it unusable until repairs are made. Events were also canceled this weekend due to flooding, including the Kingston Springs Elementary School Spring Fling fundraiser. 

During the flood of 2010, the Harpeth River crested at 46 feet. 

Gov. Bill Lee on Thursday night urged Tennesseans to remain vigilant as a series of powerful storms continue to pummel the region with more possible tornado warnings, hail and flash flooding.

“This storm is going to continue,” Lee said in a news conference at the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency headquarters. “There will be continued tornado warnings. There’s continued flooding, and there’s continued dangers for Tennesseans. The main message tonight is: ‘Don’t let your guard down.’”

Another set of severe storms is expected in Middle Tennessee Saturday that could bring catastrophic flooding to an already saturated ground.

“Saturday is the day that concerns me the most right now,” he said. “Saturday is a dangerous day going into Saturday night for flash flooding.”

Tennessee remains in a state of emergency, with the Trump Administration granting swift approval for a federal emergency declaration, Lee said. The governor said Tennessee is working with the Federal Emergency Management Agency for direct assistance and will determine what additional aid is necessary.