PowerSouth issues high water notification alert

Due to heavy rainfall and additional rain anticipated, PowerSouth issued a high-water notification under its Emergency Action Plan on Saturday, March 9.

To that end, PowerSouth has initiated a controlled release at Gantt and Point A Dams, which are subject to government-mandated statutes.

“The downpour from the system that moved through our area late Friday and early Saturday morning has dramatically increased water levels,” PowerSouth Communications Manager Baynard Ward said. “When water levels at the dams reach a predetermined level, we work with local Emergency Management Agencies to notify the public of potential downstream flooding.”

PowerSouth’s operators manage its hydroelectric dams in accordance with state and federal statutes to maintain the levels of Point A and Gantt Lakes within acceptable operating standards.

“Our operators allow all incoming water flow to pass through the dams, using the gates to manage river flow and maintain lake levels. Our FERC operating license requires us to maintain the natural flow of the river, so all water that flows into the lakes is released into the Conecuh River at the Point A Dam,” he added.

Safety is PowerSouth’s top priority.

“We will continue to monitor the lake levels and will adjust gates as needed to safely operate the Gantt and Point A Dams. We advise property owners along the lakefront and downstream to remain vigilant of river and weather conditions. Please take the appropriate precautions against flooding,” Ward said.

About PowerSouth
PowerSouth serves the wholesale energy needs of 16 electric cooperatives and four municipal electric systems in Alabama and northwest Florida. Collectively, the members provide electric service to homes, businesses and industries in 39 Alabama and 10 Florida counties.

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