Scott County braces for winter weather after flooding
Jeff Brickey, Scott County Emergency Management Coordinator, said most of the impacted areas of flooding occurred around the Clinch River.
'So far, it's spread pretty evenly across Scott County and this includes the damage to private roads,' Brickey said. 'We've had several homes that have had damage and flooding to them. We've also had blockages in drains and tiles and that type of thing.'
Brickey said they know of seven people at the time who have been displaced from their homes. Emergency shelters were ready just in case anyone needed a place to stay. He said those who were displaced had relatives to stay with or other places to go.
'We're doing damage assessment to determine the damage to homes, businesses within the community, and that'll be going on for several days. We'll also be working with our partners with the Virginia Department of Emergency Management and FEMA in order to secure assistance for individuals who need that assistance in the county.'
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) is handling much of the road damage.
Michelle Earl, a VDOT spokesperson, sent News Channel 11 a statement saying around 100 roads in the Bristol 12-county region were impacted by flooding, and crews are checking roads and bridges for damage.
'In addition to efforts due to flooding, staff are working to prepare for Wednesday's predicted winter weather.
Brining operations will take place midday Tuesday on Interstate 81 in Washington, Smyth and Wythe counties and on Interstate 77 in Bland and Wythe counties.
Plans for winter weather response will be further refined Tuesday. '
Michelle Earl, VDOT
Brickey said Scott County has emergency plans in place for upcoming winter weather and plans to have emergency shelters ready again.
'We normally encourage folks to stock up on nonperishable items, food items and that type of thing, make sure their vehicles are fueled up and gassed and everything is in good shape on their vehicles, check their propane levels on their homes and their heating equipment to make sure it's operating properly,' Brickey said.
He also encourages people to pay attention to the weather forecast to stay up to date.
'Any changes that might impact their travel, plan ahead. We tell people, when it comes to water across roadways, turn around don't drown.'
Hurricane Helene also affected Scott County. Brickey said they are still recovering from that damage.
'We're still seeing a lot of effects of that, where we had a lot of trees that were knocked down and blown over and those have fallen into streams. So that's had some impact on the flooding by holding back water in some places.'
Brickey said those who have damage can call the Scott County government offices at 276-386-6521 or him at 423-335-8821.
The Virginia Department of Energy (VDEM) also has a form where you can self-report damage.
Information about shelter locations will be listed on the Scott County government website and their E-911 website.
Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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