PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (GA NC SC) Continuing USGS SAWSC response to major storm/rainfall event January 8-9, 2024

Date: Thu, 11 Jan 2024 14:18:45 EST

Summary: A strong storm system moved across the three-state region of Georgia, South Carolina, and North Caroling (USGS South Atlantic Water Science Center) on January 8-9, 2024, dropping from 1 to 5 inches, with the higher totals occurring across western river basins of the 3 states.

USGS crews from all 9 field offices within the USGS SAWSC continued to be in the field to collect high-flow measurements and make repairs to streamgages where needed. The focus of most measurements today are shifted to the larger rivers in the eastern parts of the states that slowly rise and stay high for several days. More specifically, a total of 19 field crews were in the field on January 10 to make 33 measurements and to complete repairs. Most of the measurements have been described as opportunistic measurements that allow for continued rating development and refinement. Where the highest measurements were made, these were for recently established streamgages having short periods of record.

Of particular note and interest for today's notification, a field crew measuring the Yadkin River at Enon in the northern foothills of western North Carolina had to let go of a tethered River Ray when it became snagged by a large tree floating down the river. The crew wisely released the piece of equipment for safety purposes when it became evident it could not be removed from the tree. Fortunately, the River Ray was recovered this morning at a downstream location and found to be in working order.

In addition to the 3 sites mentioned in yesterday's Alert where indirects are needed, an additional indirect will be needed for a streamgage in Georgia.

All field personnel are safe and accounted for at this time.

No unmet needs (that cannot be met from within the Center) have been identified by any of the 9 field offices.

This will be the last Project Alert from USGS SAWSC for this event.