06-05-2025
Depth changes on Nolichucky source of worry as summer approaches
GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL)—The Nolichucky River experienced major changes after Hurricane Helene. Emergency officials warn that those changes could become hazardous.
The river rose to record levels during the hurricane, and the riverbank was significantly altered as a result.
'There's places on this river that used to be 40 feet deep that are now 2-10 feet deep,' Greeneville Emergency and Rescue Squad Captain Cody Trammell said.
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While shallow water seems harmless, Trammell said it could make things more dangerous, especially for boaters.
'If you're on the boat, then you can risk damaging the boat or getting thrown from the boat just because of a rock in the way that was not there beforehand,' he said. 'If you get thrown off the boat and you don't have a life jacket and you hit a rock with your head, you could be unconscious.'
Trammell said these changes only amplify his concern regarding the river.
'It can be life or death, I mean, honestly,' he said. 'The river beforehand was, it was dangerous, and in my opinion, it's even more dangerous now. You've got people that's run this river for 20, 30 years before the flood, knew it like the back of their hand. Well, now it's changed.'
Trammell said he wants to get the word out early as the weather trends warmer.
'There hasn't been an influx of people on the river yet,' he said. 'But we want people to know ahead of time.'
And while it's commonly stressed, Trammell once again urges:
'If you're in or on the water, please have a life jacket on,' he said.
Trammell and his crews are prepared for any water emergency calls they receive as the summer months arrive.
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