A catastrophic flood event has struck North Georgia and southern Tennessee, prompting widespread water rescues and evacuations. The flash flood emergencies are in effect for McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee, on the Georgia-Tennessee border. Record flooding is ongoing along the Ocoee River in Tennessee and the Toccoa River in Georgia. The National Weather Service reported that the river crested just above the previous record flood set in 1990.
A state of emergency has been issued in McCaysville, and the city is closed until further notice, according to the city's police chief Michael Earley. Earley stated that they are actively trying to water rescue people and that several individuals are still trapped in homes. He urged residents to bear with them and pray for those affected and their families. Evacuations were ordered for residents in McCaysville on West Tennessee Avenue and East Tennessee Avenue.
The flooding has affected numerous residents in Fannin County, where McCaysville is located, with multiple homes flooded and some completely surrounded by water. Emergency management in Fannin County and Gilmer County reported widespread flooding, with water rescues underway. A separate flash flood emergency was issued overnight for other parts of Fannin County and Gilmer County in Georgia.
The flooding is attributed to slow-moving overnight storms that brought widespread rainfall totals of 3 to 6 inches across parts of North Georgia, with over 8 inches in isolated spots. Up to 6 inches of rain fell in just six hours at multiple rain gauges in the area, equating to at least a 1-in-200-year rainfall. This extreme rainfall is becoming more common due to planet-warming pollution.
The rain has come to an end across northern Georgia and southern Tennessee, but dangerous river flooding will remain a threat throughout the day. The National Weather Service warned of a catastrophic flood event in McCaysville and Copperhill. Residents were urged to leave the area immediately, with Earley stating, "DO NOT DELAY YOUR EVACUATION. LEAVE THE AREA NOW."
The flooding has caused significant disruptions, with streets and buildings swamped by the flooded river. Georgia DOT cameras showed the extent of the flooding in downtown McCaysville. Emergency responders are working to rescue those trapped and provide aid to affected residents.
The flood event highlights the increasing threat of extreme rainfall due to climate change. As planet-warming pollution pushes temperatures higher, warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to more frequent and intense rainfall events. CNN Lead Meteorologist Brandon Miller contributed to the report, noting that no additional downpours are expected through the weekend.
Key points
- A state of emergency has been issued in McCaysville, Georgia.
- Record flooding has occurred along the Ocoee River in Tennessee and the Toccoa River in Georgia.
- The flooding is attributed to a 1-in-200-year rainfall event caused by slow-moving overnight storms.
