As a devastating storm ravaged western Tennessee, two brothers employed an innovative solution to save their home from the floodwaters, showcasing the power of ingenuity and community resilience in the face of adversity.
In western Tennessee, a devastating storm recently hit the region, causing widespread flooding that engulfed everything in its path.
However, thanks to the ingenuity of two brothers, Tucker and Justin Humphrey, their family home remained virtually untouched by the floodwaters.
The idea of constructing a levee was passed down from the brothers’ father, who had learned the technique many years ago.
The brothers followed in his footsteps, using an excavator to build barriers up to nine feet tall in certain places around their property. This clever system proved to be sorely needed, as the Obion River, which runs adjacent to their hometown of ‘Bogota‘ , rose nine feet at the beginning of April.
The storm itself was catastrophic, killing over 30 people and forcing around 100 people to be rescued in the area.
The Obion River, located in northwestern Tennessee and southwestern Kentucky, is prone to flooding due to its location within the Mississippi River Basin.
Heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and high water levels from upstream rivers contribute to frequent flooding events.
According to data from the National Weather Service, the Obion River experiences an average of 3-4 major flood events per year.
The most significant floods occurred in 1937, 1945, and 1990, causing widespread damage and displacement.
However, the Humphreys’ home remained dry and safe, thanks to the brothers’ quick thinking and engineering skills. As ‘Just normal things around here… Doing what we have to do to save the house’ , Tucker told the Washington Post.
Humphreys' flood protection refers to the concept developed by Andrew Atkinson Humphreys, a US Army engineer and geologist.
In 1861, he proposed a system of levees and dunes to protect against flooding in coastal areas.
The approach involves building artificial barriers to prevent water from overflowing onto land.
This method was initially used on the Mississippi River and has since been adopted worldwide for flood control.
According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, Humphreys' design has reduced flood damage by up to 90% in some regions.
The brothers’ determination to protect their home is admirable, and it’s clear that they will continue to take proactive measures to ensure their property remains safe in the face of future flooding events.
With a plan to construct even higher barriers if necessary, the Humphreys are ready to face whatever challenges come their way.
The story of the Humphrey brothers is a testament to the power of family and determination in the face of adversity. By taking matters into their own hands and using their knowledge of levee construction, they were able to save their home from the devastating floodwaters that surrounded it.
This remarkable tale serves as a reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters and the value of community resilience in the face of uncertainty.
Natural disasters can strike at any moment, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.
Preparation is key to minimizing the impact of these events.
Governments and emergency management agencies provide essential guidelines for disaster preparedness, including evacuation routes, emergency contact numbers, and shelter locations.
Homeowners should also take proactive steps by securing their properties, stocking emergency supplies, and staying informed about weather conditions.
Regular drills and training exercises can help families develop a plan to respond effectively in case of an emergency.
The Humphreys’ clever system is not just a testament to their engineering skills, but also to the importance of community and family ties. By working together and using their knowledge to protect their home, they were able to save their property and ensure the safety of those around them.
