Chattanooga, October 27, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga faced catastrophic flooding resulting from an unprecedented rainfall of 6.42 inches in one day, leading to three fatalities, including a family of three. Extensive damages occurred as flash flooding trapped vehicles and affected roads. Efforts to locate a missing individual continue as emergency services conducted multiple rescues. A flood watch persists for millions across the region, with ongoing concerns about additional rainfall and potential flooding in nearby areas.
Severe Flooding in Chattanooga Leaves Three Dead and Causes Widespread Damage
Chattanooga experienced a significant rainfall event, accumulating over 6.42 inches of rain on a single day, marking it as the second-wettest day in the city’s history since records began in 1879. The heavy rain began overnight Tuesday, leading to flash flooding that shut down interstates and trapped vehicles in rising waters.
A family consisting of two adults and one child died after a tree fell on their car in East Ridge as a result of the intense rainfall. At least one man is missing, with authorities stating he was swept away in the floodwaters. Efforts to locate him are a top priority as first responders attempt both boat searches and ground efforts.
In response to the flooding, Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp declared a local state of emergency. Muddy floodwaters transformed highways into rivers, with one video showing a tractor-trailer navigating through submerged Interstate 24.
Emergency responders conducted several rescues, saving six people from a van nearly swept away at the intersection of Davidson Road and Gunbarrel Road. Firefighters spent several hours searching for victims in submerged cars, while the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office aided in rescuing residents trapped in their homes due to rising waters.
Currently, a flood watch is in effect for 6 million people across Tennessee and eastern Kentucky, with forecasts predicting further heavy rain leading to potential flash flooding. Flood watch warnings indicate that excessive rainfall could cause runoff and flooding in creeks, streams, and low-lying areas, particularly affecting areas that have already experienced heavy rain.
Although waters began to recede in Chattanooga, additional weather concerns are present, particularly in Juneau, Alaska, where a glacial outburst is expected to cause significant flooding along the Mendenhall Lake and River. The National Weather Service of Juneau confirmed the situation, and local officials have initiated evacuation plans for residents in high-risk areas.
Impacts and Statistics
The severe flooding event has raised concerns among officials and residents alike. Various regions impacted were highlighted by drastic rainfall and safety measures taken during the emergency weather conditions.
Key Statistics
- Rainfall Accumulation: 6.42 inches
- Fatalities: 3 (two adults and one child)
- Missing Persons: 1
- Emergency Rescues: 6 individuals rescued
- Flood watch coverage: 6 million people
Next Steps
As authorities continue their rescue efforts and monitor flood conditions, residents in the affected areas are urged to stay informed and heed warnings from local weather services. Future rainfall forecasts remain a matter of concern for the region and beyond.
FAQ Section
How much rain fell in Chattanooga during the recent flooding?
Chattanooga experienced over 6.42 inches of rain on a single day, marking it as the second-wettest day in the city’s history.
What caused the recent flooding in Chattanooga?
The heavy rain began overnight Tuesday, leading to flash flooding that shut down interstates and trapped vehicles in rising waters.
How many people were affected by flooding in the region?
A flood watch is currently in effect for 6 million people across Tennessee and eastern Kentucky.
Are there rescue efforts ongoing in the flooded areas?
Yes, emergency responders conducted several rescues and are continuing efforts to locate a missing person swept away in the floodwaters.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Rainfall | 6.42 inches |
| Fatalities | 3 |
| Missing Person | 1 |
| Emergency Rescues | 6 |
| Flood Watch Population | 6 million |
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Additional Resources
- NBC News: 3 Dead in Historic Rain and Flash Flooding in Tennessee
- CNN: Video Coverage of Chattanooga Rain and Flood
- AccuWeather: Chattanooga Rainfall Leaves 4 Dead, Prompts State of Emergency
- NY Times: Flooding in Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Nooga Today: Rainy Day Activities in Chattanooga, TN
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flood
- Google Search: Chattanooga Flooding 2025
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga Flood
- Google News: Chattanooga Rain
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.
