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The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning on Friday, Sept. 27, for Franklin, Southampton County and southwestern Isle of Wight County. The warning runs from 4:19 p.m. through 7:30 p.m.

The warning stated that at 4:19 p.m., “Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the warned area. Between 1.5 and 3 inches of rain have fallen. The expected rainfall rate is 2.5 to 4 inches in one hour. Additional rainfall amounts of 1.5 to 3 inches are possible in the warned area. Flash flooding is ongoing or expected to begin shortly.”

The precautionary/preparedness actions noted in the Flash Flood Warning included the following:

• Turn around, don’t drown when encountering flooded roads. Most flood deaths occur in vehicles;
• Be aware of your surroundings, and do not drive on flooded roads.

Southampton County Sheriff’s Office Maj. Camden Cobb reported shortly before 6 p.m. that the sheriff’s office had two reports of vehicle crashes since 4:30 p.m. No injuries had been reported. There was also one report of a disabled vehicle.

“I do not know that the weather was the cause of any of these incidents, but it seems likely that that may be the case,” he stated. 

“As far as road conditions are concerned, we have received a report of water across the road at General Thomas Highway near Bishop Poquoson Road,” he continued. “VDOT has been notified to place some warning signage.”

He said he is not aware of any roads that have been closed. 

“I also do not have any reports of downed trees at this time either,” he added.

Interim Franklin City Manager Darlene Burcham confirmed Friday evening that the Franklin Fall Festival is still planned for Saturday, Sept. 28.