“Significant flooding” traps drivers, prompts alert by NC sheriff
Significant flooding on roads trapped cars and prompted an alert by the Union County Sheriff’s Office on Saturday.
“We have already had numerous vehicles stranded in floodwater today,” sheriff’s officials said on social media.
A photo released by the sheriff’s office shows a car in floodwaters almost above its tires. Another picture shows a person outside the open front passenger-side door of a car stopped on a flooded road.
Find other routes, deputies urge
The National Weather Service issued a flood warning for northern Union County until 3:15 p.m. “Flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations is occurring,” according to the NWS warning. “Numerous roads remain closed due to flooding. It will take several hours for all the water from these storms to work through local drainage systems in urban areas.”
The flooding followed intense overnight downpours.
Flooded roads include Indian Trail Road, Sardis Church Road, Gribble Road, Unionville Indian Trail Road and parts of Idlewild Road, according to the sheriff’s office.
“If possible, please avoid these areas and utilize alternate routes until conditions improve,” sheriff’s officials said.
“If you cannot see the roadway, do not attempt to drive through it,” the sheriff’s office warned.
“What may appear to be a shallow area can quickly become deep enough to stall a vehicle or create a dangerous situation,” officials said. “Stay safe, use caution, and help spread the word to keep others informed.”