Chattanooga, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga is experiencing widespread challenges due to severe flash flooding caused by 6.42 inches of rain on Tuesday. Road closures and rescue efforts are ongoing as local officials respond to the unprecedented situation. Emergency shelters have been established for affected residents, and community leaders are urging a reassessment of aging infrastructure in light of current weather threats. Thankfully, no injuries have been reported, but evacuation efforts are underway in various areas.
Chattanooga Schools and Community Impacted by Severe Flash Flooding Following Heavy Rainfall
Chattanooga is facing significant challenges as a result of severe flash flooding following heavy rainfall on Tuesday afternoon and evening. The Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office reported that the unprecedented flooding has caused major disruptions, including road closures, rescues, and evacuation efforts across the city.
Reports indicate that flooding conditions were so widespread that Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett stated they were unlike any he has experienced in his career, with significant impacts recorded in areas like Brainerd and East Ridge. A Flash Flood Warning remains active as many local roads and power lines are downed, complicating the situation further.
To assist residents affected by the flooding, the Chattanooga Fire Department opened the Brainerd Recreation Center as an emergency shelter for evacuees. Meanwhile, Catoosa County reported evacuations from flooded homes, particularly at The Crossings and Fountain Brooks apartments. Temporary shelters have also been set up at Constitution Hall and Westside voting precincts.
The flooding caused major road closures, including a portion of Interstate 24, which was completely submerged between South Moore and McBrien roads. Traffic flow was severely affected, prompting rapid response measures as rescue crews mobilized to help trapped motorists and residents. As of 10 p.m., all eastbound lanes of I-24 have reopened, with westbound lanes scheduled to follow once stranded vehicles are removed. However, sections between Belvoir Avenue and Spring Creek Road remain closed indefinitely.
Local eyewitness accounts describe quickly rising waters that overwhelmed roads in a short amount of time, necessitating the deployment of swiftwater rescue teams to locations like McCutcheon and Hickory Valley. Fortunately, reports indicate there have been no injuries related to the flooding at this time, but officials continue to advise the community against driving through flooded areas.
The Hamilton County Emergency Operations Center has been activated to coordinate the response efforts, while County Mayor Weston Wamp has declared a local state of emergency. As cleanup efforts begin, crews are already working overnight to address the damage and clear fallen debris from about 20 roads in Catoosa County.
Historical weather data indicates that the city recorded 6.42 inches of rain on Tuesday, making it one of the wettest days in the city’s recorded history. Community leaders are calling for a critical reassessment of the area’s aging infrastructure in light of the recent flooding, as storms like these become an increasingly pressing threat.
Key Facts:
- Severe flash flooding reported in Chattanooga following 6.42 inches of rainfall.
- Brainerd Recreation Center opened as a shelter for evacuees.
- I-24 experiences major closures; some areas remain shut down indefinitely.
- No injuries reported; swiftwater rescue teams deployed.
- Local state of emergency declared by County Mayor Weston Wamp.
Background Context:
The heavy rains and resulting flash floods have raised concerns among community leaders regarding aging infrastructure and its capacity to handle extreme weather events. As storms appear to be increasing in severity, addressing these issues is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of Chattanooga residents.
FAQ
What caused the flooding in Chattanooga?
The flooding was caused by heavy rainfall, totaling 6.42 inches on Tuesday, resulting in severe flash flooding across the region.
Are there any injuries reported due to the flooding?
As of the latest reports, there have been no injuries linked to the flooding.
What are the current road conditions?
Several major roads, including parts of Interstate 24, are closed due to flooding. Some areas have reopened, but others remain closed indefinitely.
What shelters are available for evacuees?
Emergency shelters have been established at Brainerd Recreation Center, Constitution Hall, and Westside voting precincts.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rainfall Recorded | 6.42 inches |
| Evacuation Centers | Brainerd Recreation Center; Constitution Hall; Westside Voting Precincts |
| Road Closures | Major arteries including I-24; several local roads |
| Emergency Response | Activated Hamilton County Emergency Operations Center; swiftwater rescue teams deployed |
| ID of Local Infrastructure Issues | Calls for assessment of aging infrastructure |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Flooding Causes Problems, Evacuations in Chattanooga
- Wikipedia: Flood
- New York Times: Flooding in Chattanooga
- Google Search: Chattanooga Flooding
- WSMV: Roads Shut Down Due to Flooding in Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Flooding in Chattanooga
- Hindustan Times: Chattanooga Flooding Chaos
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Local 3 News: Major Flooding Hits Chattanooga
Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
