Chattanooga, Tennessee, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga faced catastrophic flash flooding, with a woman rescued from her submerged SUV as record rainfall pummeled the area. On August 12, over 6 inches of rain fell, leading to severe flooding and multiple rescues. Locals rallied to assist those trapped, showcasing remarkable community spirit. The flooding sadly resulted in several fatalities, prompting emergency declarations and extensive recovery efforts. As weather conditions remain precarious, officials continue to monitor the situation for further potential risks.
Chattanooga
A woman named Bilha Vasquez was rescued from her SUV during historic flash flooding in Chattanooga, Tennessee, last month. The flooding occurred on August 12, where the city received over 6 inches of rain in just a few hours, marking it as the second-highest rainfall total since records began in 1879.
The intense storms resulted in widespread flooding, affecting main roads and side streets across the area. Interstate 24 became partially submerged, leaving numerous vehicles stranded and many residents trapped in their homes. In the wake of the severe weather, emergency services reported multiple rescues and evacuations across the region.
Vasquez found herself in a dire situation when the water inside her SUV rose perilously close to her chin. The prompt action of Troy Plemons, who bravely jumped into the rising floodwaters, made it possible for her to escape. Plemons was able to break the window of the SUV with a rock, assisting Vasquez to safety while navigating the treacherous water.
For the first time since the harrowing incident, Vasquez and Plemons were reunited. Their remarkable rescue was captured on camera, highlighting Plemons’ actions that saved the young woman from a potentially fatal situation.
Impact of Flooding
Tragically, the flooding in Chattanooga resulted in several fatalities. A family of three lost their lives when a tree fell on their car in East Ridge, contributing to a total of four confirmed deaths in the Tennessee Valley due to the severe storms. Rainfall totals exceeded half a foot in several parts of the Chattanooga metropolitan area, significantly impacting local communities.
Mayor Weston Wamp of Hamilton County declared a local state of emergency in response to the heavy rains and flooding that ensued. The National Weather Service issued a flood watch for much of middle Tennessee, citing the potential for further flash flooding and continuing heavy rain in the days following the initial storms.
Rescue Operations and Community Response
Emergency response teams, including the Chattanooga Fire Department and the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, coordinated efforts to rescue stranded motorists and residents. Swiftwater rescue teams utilized rafts and inflatable boats to reach individuals trapped in their vehicles and homes. The harsh conditions led to over 100 evacuations reported in nearby Catoosa County, Georgia, along with multiple rescues from local apartment complexes.
Due to the extent of the flooding, several school closures were instituted in Hamilton County. Portions of I-24 were temporarily closed due to water levels but were later reopened as conditions improved. Recovery and cleanup efforts have commenced, with officials carefully assessing the widespread damage caused by the flooding.
Ongoing Concerns
As recovery efforts unfold, residents remain on alert for additional flooding, with warnings still in effect due to the possibility of incoming storms. The situation across the region remains delicate, and officials continue to monitor weather conditions to ensure community safety.
Key Statistics
- Record rainfall of over 6 inches on August 12
- Second-highest rainfall recorded since 1879
- Four confirmed deaths associated with the flooding
- More than 100 evacuations in Catoosa County, GA
- Consistent efforts by emergency services and swiftwater rescue teams
FAQ
What caused the flooding in Chattanooga?
The flooding was caused by historic rainfall, with over 6 inches recorded in just a few hours on August 12, resulting in significant flash flooding across the area.
How many fatalities occurred due to the flooding?
At least four fatalities have been confirmed in connection with the flooding, including a tragic incident where a family of three lost their lives when a tree fell on their car.
What rescue operations were conducted during the flooding?
Emergecy response teams, including the Chattanooga Fire Department and swiftwater rescue teams, conducted numerous rescues using rafts and inflatable boats to assist residents trapped in vehicles and homes.
Rescue Overview
| Event | Date | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Rainfall | August 12, 2023 | Over 6 inches |
| Rescues Performed | Throughout Flooding | Numerous rescues across Chattanooga |
| Confirmed Deaths | Following Flood | 4 confirmed deaths |
| Evacuations | Ongoing | Over 100 evacuations reported |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Severe Flooding in Chattanooga Claims Four Lives
Severe Storms Lead to Flash Flooding in Catoosa County
Chattanooga Faces Severe Flash Flooding After Heavy Rain
Additional Resources
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.
