News Summary
Chattanooga, Tennessee, has declared a local state of emergency due to historic flooding caused by record rainfall. The city experienced its second-wettest day on record, resulting in road closures, school cancellations, and ongoing flood warnings. The National Weather Service has issued flash flood alerts, urging residents to exercise caution and avoid flooded areas. Efforts are underway to assist displaced residents and manage floodwaters as conditions remain hazardous throughout the region.
Chattanooga Declares Local State of Emergency Amid Record Flooding
Chattanooga, Tennessee, has declared a local state of emergency following historic flooding caused by unprecedented rainfall. The heavy rain led to multiple road closures, school cancellations, and ongoing flood warnings throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Record Rainfall Hits Chattanooga
On Tuesday, Chattanooga experienced its second-wettest day on record with 6.42 inches of rain falling within a 24-hour period. This rainfall nearly doubled the typical August precipitation for the city, which usually averages around 3.5 to 4 inches. The intense downpour overwhelmed drainage systems, resulting in widespread flooding across streets, businesses, and residential neighborhoods.
Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure
The heavy rains caused significant disruption to transportation. Several roads, including East Brainerd Road (SR 320) at Gunbarrel Road and I-24 at McBrien Road, were temporarily closed to traffic. Initially, I-24 was shut down in both directions but was later reopened in the eastbound direction after floodwaters receded. Meanwhile, trapped vehicles on the westbound lanes were successfully cleared. Despite these efforts, many other streets remain impassable due to high water levels.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued ongoing flash flood warnings extending into late Tuesday evening and urged residents to exercise caution. The warning period remains in effect until 10:45 PM EDT, as heavy thunderstorms continue to produce additional rainfall and swelling floodwaters.
Schools and Public Services Adjustments
In response to dangerous conditions, Hamilton County Schools announced that all classes would be canceled on Wednesday, August 13. Initially, a delayed start was planned, but dangerously flooded roads prompted the decision to fully close schools for the day. The flood situation has affected other public services as well, with authorities establishing an evacuation site at the Chris Ramsey Brainerd Rec Center to assist residents displaced by the rising waters.
Official Response and Safety Advisories
Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp declared a local state of emergency to mobilize resources and coordinate response efforts across agencies. The mayor is working with the Director of Emergency Management and state officials, including TEMA and the Governor’s Office, to oversee flood response strategies.
The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office strongly advises residents to remain in safe locations and avoid unnecessary driving. Emergency officials emphasize the dangers of flooded roads, advising the public to “turn around, don’t drown.” Numerous photos and videos circulating through the area show vehicles stranded in floodwaters, illustrating the severity of the flooding and the risks involved in attempting to navigate flooded streets.
Areas Affected and What’s Next
The current flood warnings include several neighborhoods and towns beyond Chattanooga, such as Ridgeside, Harrison, South Cleveland, and Red Bank. Due to ongoing thunderstorms and persistent rainfall, additional flash flooding is expected later into the night, and residents are urged to stay alert for updates and safety instructions.
Both local and regional emergency agencies continue to monitor weather conditions and flood levels as they work to ensure public safety. Authorities urge residents to heed warnings, avoid flooded roads, and seek higher ground if necessary.
Summary
Chattanooga’s record-breaking rainfall has prompted an emergency declaration, school closures, road closures, and evacuations. Efforts remain focused on managing floodwaters, assisting displaced residents, and preventing further injuries or property damage. As the weather system moves through the region, officials remain vigilant and prepared for additional rainfall and flooding challenges.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Flooding Causes Problems & Evacuations
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- New York Times: Flooding in Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Google Search: Chattanooga flooding
- CNN: Chattanooga Rain Flood Video
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga floods
- WBIR: Heavy Rains Flooding Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding in Tennessee
- Hindustan Times: Chattanooga Flooding Chaos
- Google News: Chattanooga floods
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