Chattanooga, TN, August 18, 2025
News Summary
Severe weather and sinkholes are disrupting East Tennessee, especially in Chattanooga, where a large sinkhole has closed Heritage Landing Drive. Residents are waiting for repair updates while a flash flood warning remains in effect for Knoxville. Heavy rainfall is causing hazardous flooding, affecting local infrastructure and leading to power outages. The situation has resulted in multiple fatalities in the region. Authorities are cautious about ongoing conditions and advise residents to seek higher ground.
Chattanooga Faces Severe Weather and Sinkholes
Severe weather conditions and sinkholes are causing major disruptions across East Tennessee, particularly in Chattanooga, where a large sinkhole has closed Heritage Landing Drive under Veterans Bridge. This closure is blocking the main entrance into the neighborhood, leaving residents awaiting updates regarding estimated repair timelines from city officials.
Currently, residents in the Knoxville region are cautioned to seek higher ground as a flash flood warning remains in effect until 2 p.m. today. This warning has arisen due to heavy rainfall that began on August 12, continuing to create hazardous flooding conditions. Thunderstorms across the area are producing extensive rainfall, further increasing the risk of flooding.
The National Weather Service has issued flash flood warnings for several counties, including South Central Anderson County, Northern Blount County, West Central Jefferson County, Knox County, Northeastern Loudon County, Southeastern Roane County, and Northern Sevier County. According to data from McGhee Tyson Airport, 1.4 inches of rain fell in just three hours by 10:53 a.m. today, further contributing to local flooding.
In Knoxville, numerous streets were reported as flooded early this morning, and with more rain on the way, officials express concern for worsening conditions. Knox County officials are actively monitoring flood-prone areas and may implement road closures and detours if necessary. Jim Snowden, Knox County’s director of engineering and public works, reported that flooding is also affecting various construction sites in the area.
Interstate 40 experienced significant traffic delays due to crashes caused by the storm, particularly in Sevier County and East Knox County. As of 11:25 a.m., approximately 1,400 utility customers across West Knoxville were without power, as indicated by the Knoxville Utility Board outage map.
In addition to ongoing weather challenges, severe flooding in Chattanooga and Northwestern Georgia has resulted in three fatalities and one missing person. Although Interstate 24 was temporarily closed due to flooding, it has since reopened as water levels receded. Notably, the National Weather Service recorded 6.42 inches of rain at Chattanooga Airport in one day, marking the second-highest total for a single day in the city’s history.
Further complicating the situation, a sinkhole has also formed on Highway 111 in Sequatchie County due to an underground pipe failure, impacting traffic flow until necessary repairs can be completed. In Chattanooga, crews have filled a sinkhole that emerged in a Walgreens parking lot; however, concerns remain due to a leaking pipe, for which the responsibility for repairs lies with Walgreens.
Geologist Amy Brock-Hon has indicated that the region’s wet weather could be weakening the limestone, potentially contributing to the formation of these sinkholes. Although a major drainage improvement project had been previously conducted near the Walgreens site, city officials have stated that the recent sinkhole issues are not related.
Flood Warnings Summary
- Current flash flood warnings for multiple counties
- Heavy rainfall and thunderstorms likely to continue
- Road closures and detours may be necessary
Utility Outages
- 1,400 customers without power in West Knoxville
- Power outages being monitored by local officials
Public Safety Recommendations
- Seek higher ground during ongoing weather events
- Monitor local news and official alerts for updates
- Use caution on flooded roadways
Background Context
East Tennessee has experienced a period of unusual weather patterns, contributing to these recent challenges. Flooding in the region is not uncommon, but the combination of heavy rainfall and compromised infrastructure has exacerbated the current situation. The increased frequency and severity of thunderstorms have put additional pressure on local emergency services and infrastructure.
FAQ
What areas are affected by the flooding?
Current flash flood warnings are in effect for counties including South Central Anderson, Northern Blount, West Central Jefferson, Knox, Northeastern Loudon, Southeastern Roane, and Northern Sevier.
What should residents do during the flooding?
Residents are advised to seek higher ground, avoid flooded areas, and follow updates from local authorities regarding road closures and safety recommendations.
Are there reports of power outages?
Yes, approximately 1,400 utility customers in West Knoxville are currently without power, with ongoing monitoring from local utility providers.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Weather Conditions | Severe flooding and thunderstorms |
| Infrastructure Impact | Sinkholes causing road closures and traffic disruptions |
| Utility Status | 1,400 customers without power |
| Public Safety | Flash flood warnings in effect |
| Fatalities | Three deaths in Chattanooga and Northwestern Georgia |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Hurricane Erin Weakens to Category 3: Impact Spreads Across the Caribbean
Chattanooga Hit Hard by Flash Flooding, Causing Loss of Lives
East Ridge Residents Grapple with Flash Flood Aftermath
Severe Flooding in Chattanooga Claims Four Lives
Erlanger Park Stadium Construction on Track for Completion
Chattanooga’s Annual Chatt Town Cool Down Returns
Severe Storms Lead to Flash Flooding in Catoosa County
Hamilton County Schools Closed Due to Severe Flooding
Chattanooga Faces Severe Flash Flooding After Heavy Rain
Historic Flooding Sweeps Through Milwaukee with Over 12 Inches of Rainfall
Additional Resources
- Knox News: Knoxville Weather Live Updates
- Local 3 News: Power Outages in the Tennessee Valley
- Times Free Press: Sinkhole Closes State Highway 111
- News Channel 9: 17-Foot Deep Sinkhole in Chattanooga
- Weather.com: Heavy Rains and Flooding in the South
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Google Search: Sinkhole in Chattanooga
- Google Scholar: Sinkhole Formation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sinkhole
- Google News: Severe Weather in Tennessee
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.
