TIFT CO., GA (WALB) -
Tift, Irwin, Berrien, Turner and Ben Hill Counties remain under a flash flood watch.
But the biggest problems were reported in Tift County. Several low-lying areas in Tift County were blocked by rising water after heavy rains last night and today.
EMA officials held a news conference Wednesday afternoon, and said that they measured 11.5 inches of rainfall. They said that damage assessment teams are out now, covering the county to determine the extent of damage.
EMA says that 13 people are displaced, and are staying in hotels.
The Health Department urges anyone who came into contact with flood water to get a tetanus shot immediately.
More rain expected tonight, though officials hope they can get a break from more water. Rain has barely stopped all day in Tift County.
Customers staying at the Tifton Ramada Inn were sent to the Days Inn and the Comfort Inn. The Days Inn reported some slight water damage on the first floor.
Wednesday morning, water was about knee-high in the Tri County Road area near Highway 82.
"Do not pass through standing water unless directed to by State Troopers or police. We want everyone to drive with caution," said Craig Solomon of the DOT.
- CLICK HERE to see and send pictures of the flooding
Shepard's Mobile Homes said they had significant standing water, and that three of their homes will need significant repair from water damage.
R&B Used Cars reported that six cars were damaged by water.
The DOT closed part of Highway 82 east of Tifton at the fairgrounds to Alapaha.
Before daylight, water rushed over road in front of new Peanut Commission building in Tifton.
Highway 41 near the Tifton airport has flooding issues but is still passable.
Tift County EMA Director Jason Jones told us that several homes are flooded on Fletcher and Robert Oliver Road.
Classes went on as scheduled in Tift County today. Tift County School Superintendent Patrick Atwater said students who were late to class because of flooded roads were excused.
Drivers should avoid all the flooded areas until the all-clear is given by local officials.
For more information on tetanus shots, which might be free, call Tift County Health Department at 386-8373
No flooding issues were reported in Thomas, Grady, Decatur, Seminole, or Miller counties.
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The Ramada Inn in Tifton
Water is about two feet over the ground near Hwy 82 and Tri County Rd. (Source: Penny A. Black)
Several Tift Co. homes and cars will have significant water damage
Highway 82 East was closed by the GADOT
Water in New River near Highway 82
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