New flood threat for Macon, Middle Georgia into New Year's Day

Those resolving to get in shape can't begin the new year walking off the pounds on the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail or at Amerson Water Park.

The two Macon-Bibb County public parks will remain closed until the river drops below flood stage, which is not expected to happen until at least next week.

After Macon already received more than 10 inches of rain this month, more is on the way to close out the year.

With the bulk of the month's wet weather falling last week, soils remain saturated, prompting a flood watch until Friday evening as another 2 inches of rain is possible.

Because of the wet ground, flash flooding of streets is possible due to slow drainage and clogged storm drains.

The National Weather Service expects the rain to taper off by Friday evening, but Macon likely will end December with a record rainfall surplus of more than 6 inches above the 4.04-inch average for the month.

A flood watch is in effect until 7 p.m. Friday for the northern two-thirds of the state.

Flood warnings also are posted on midstate rivers.

Although the Ocmulgee River dropped more than 6 feet by early Wednesday from Sunday's crest of 27.77 feet, minor flooding continues and river levels are creeping back up after Wednesday's rain.

Although the river forecast likely will change depending on the amount of rain, the Ocmulgee is predicted to crest again at 25.4 feet Saturday.

In addition to clearing mud and silt from the miles of trails near the river, crews also will assess what appears to be a sink hole of about 2 feet by 6 feet in a field at Amerson Park, Macon-Bibb County spokesman Chris Floore said Wednesday.

Street lamps along the downtown walkway have been submerged for days, so work crews will have to evaluate the electrical system during cleanup before the parks reopen, Floore said.

To contact writer Liz Fabian, call 744-4303 and follow her on Twitter @liz_lines.

This story was originally published December 30, 2015 at 9:39 PM with the headline "New flood threat for Macon, Middle Georgia into New Year's Day ."