Douglas Dam was spilling a record amount of water, 450,000 gallons a second. The Nolichucky Dam withstood twice the water flow of Niagara Falls.

The literal floodgates are open all along the Tennessee River as it moves Helene's floodwater from the Smokies to the Ohio River.

Area law enforcement and emergency management agencies are warning drivers to avoid high waters and use caution. Flood warnings are in effect for several counties in East Tennessee. 6 News’ crews and viewers have captured photos of flooding, heavy rain and trees down throughout the region.