Duke Energy says the Walters Dam has not failed and the evacuation notice is still in effect

COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) – The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency maintains that the Walters Dam, also known as Waterville Dam, has not failed. TEMA cites the dam's owner, Duke Energy.

It comes just about an hour after Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis said the dam had suffered a “catastrophic failure.”

“THE WATERVILLE DAM HAS SUFFERED A catastrophic failure,” Mathis posted on Facebook. “Immediate evacuation of entire downtown Newport.”

It is important to note that both Mathis and TEMA remain compliant with the evacuation order.

Previous coverage: First Alert weather closes roads and schools across East Tennessee

The evacuation notice came as heavy rains from the remnants of Hurricane Helene caused flooding across Cocke County, particularly in areas near the Pigeon River and French Broad River.

According to the United States Geological Survey, both rivers are normally below 5 feet. At midday, the Pigeon River was at 20.57 feet. At 12:45 p.m., the French Broad River was at just under 17 feet.

Previous coverage: Scattered showers with at times gusty winds will continue this weekend

WVLT News has reached out for the latest information but has not yet heard back. However, the company's website also offers some insight into the status of the dam.

The spillway gates are open at Waterville Dam. Dangerous flood conditions are expected below Waterville Dam and Walters Hydroelectric Plant. WARNING: High flow rates and the natural environment of the bypassed section can create hazardous conditions. As always, we encourage residents living along rivers, streams and other low-lying and flood-prone areas to pay particular attention to changing weather conditions and take all necessary precautions.

As for the dam itself, the Army Corps of Engineers maintains an inventory of dams across the country.

The National Inventory of Dams lists Walters Dam as “high” in terms of potential hazards.

It's the latest in a series of updates from Mathis about the emergency situation in Cocke County.

“All county and city emergency resources are currently fully engaged in water rescue and evacuation efforts,” Mathis said earlier Friday. “We are still several hours away from the expected high water mark. Thank you to all of our emergency responders for their heroic efforts today and in the days ahead.”

The situation, not just in Cocke County but throughout East Tennessee, prompted a response from Gov. Bill Lee.

“As severe weather and flooding from Hurricane Helene continues to occur in Tennessee, we are monitoring conditions and urging Tennesseans to follow local guidelines for important resources, safety information and community updates,” Lee said. “Maria and I continue to pray for all Tennesseans affected.”

There is also an emergency shelter at the Newport Community Center (433 Prospect Ave.) for those living north of Wilton Springs. Liberty Church in Cosby has been designated as an evacuation center for those south of Wilton Springs.

TEMA also provides a list of emergency shelters throughout the state. That's what's available here.

Mathis has also declared a state of emergency in Cocke County.

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