Entergy prepares for potential heavy rainfall; urges caution on lakes

Entergy’s Hydro Operations sent out an email Friday alerting customers that it is monitoring upcoming forecast rainstorms and has a strategy to mitigate, if possible, high flows downstream of Remmel Dam.

Starting today, according to the National Weather Service, Hot Springs has a 70% chance of precipitation, with new rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

On Saturday, showers are likely with possibly a thunderstorm before 1 p.m., with a 60% chance of precipitation.

Rain chances continue on Sunday, with a 70% chance of precipitation, and Sunday night, when it rises to a 90% chance, and Monday, when there is a 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms.

“In preparation for periods of heavy rain, we are maintaining lake levels for Catherine and Hamilton within our standard operational bands. However, we will keep these levels slightly below our regular target elevation to provide additional capacity for absorbing rainfall. This strategy aims to mitigate, if possible, high flows downstream of Remmel Dam,” Entergy’s email said.

“Both lakes are currently at levels near our projected target for the weekend. We anticipate no significant impacts to docks, but we urge caution while on the water especially around shallow areas of the lakes. We will keep you updated on any significant changes in the water levels of the lakes or flows from the dams,” it said.

According to the National Weather Service, additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms will impact the area through the upcoming weekend and into early next week.

“All modes of severe weather will be possible but there remains some uncertainty regarding the overall timing and extent of the activity. Locally heavy rainfall will become an increasing concern heading into the weekend as well along with the potential for localized flash flooding.”