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Severe Storms Lead to Flash Flooding in Catoosa County

Emergency responders in a flooded area in Catoosa County with rain in the background.

Catoosa County, Georgia, August 14, 2025

News Summary

Catoosa County, Georgia faced severe flash flooding on August 12, causing evacuations and significant road closures. With nearly four inches of rain reported, residents were affected, particularly at The Crossings apartments. Emergency services evacuated 115 people, and temporary shelters were established for evacuees and pets. Traffic disruptions on major routes continued to impact travel safety as additional storms were forecasted.

Severe Storms Cause Major Flash Flooding in Catoosa County, Georgia

Catoosa County, Georgia experienced significant flash flooding on the night of August 12, 2025, resulting in evacuations and road closures in both Catoosa and Walker counties. The National Weather Service issued a Flash Flood Warning that remains in effect until 12:45 p.m. on August 13, 2025, due to ongoing weather conditions.

By the time flooding began, nearly four inches of rain had already fallen, with forecasts predicting an additional one to three inches of rain before Wednesday morning. Numerous emergency calls related to flooding were reported in the Fort Oglethorpe area, where at least a dozen roads were inundated with water.

One of the most severely impacted locations was The Crossings apartments on Fant Drive, where waist-deep water flooded first-floor units, affecting approximately 80 residents. Swift water rescue teams were deployed to evacuate about 115 individuals from two affected apartment complexes. This included 80 residents from The Crossings and another 35 from Fountain Brooks on Cross Street. Fortunately, no injuries were reported during these evacuation efforts.

The Catoosa County Transit system facilitated the transport of evacuees to temporary shelters established at Constitution Hall and Westside Voting Precincts. The Northwest Georgia Red Cross also opened an overnight shelter at the Catoosa Training Center Rifle Range near Ringgold, providing a safe haven for those displaced by the storm. Additionally, Catoosa County Animal Control extended their services to shelter pets affected by the flooding at the Catoosa County Animal Shelter.

As part of community support, D&A Liquidations generously donated blankets, comforters, and pillows for the evacuees at The Crossings. Meanwhile, the severe weather conditions caused the closure of about 20 roads in Catoosa County due to flooding and debris, leading to significant traffic disruptions, particularly on Interstate 24 in Chattanooga. This interstate experienced considerable backups into Georgia but was reopened late Tuesday night.

In the Chattanooga area, four fatalities were reported due to the storms, prompting the declaration of a Local State of Emergency in Hamilton County, Tennessee. Meanwhile, the American Red Cross provided additional assistance by opening a shelter in northwest Georgia to support individuals and families affected by the flooding.

As cleanup operations commenced with the receding floodwaters, officials warned of continuing storms and the potential for further flooding due to saturated soils and ongoing rain forecasts. Public advisories were issued regarding potential delays on Interstates 75 and 24, urging travelers to use extreme caution during this hazardous weather period.

Summary of Events

  • Significant flash flooding reported in Catoosa and Walker counties, Georgia.
  • Nearly four inches of rain fell, with more possible.
  • Approximately 115 people evacuated from two apartment complexes.
  • No reported injuries during evacuation operations.
  • Temporary shelters opened for evacuees; displaced pets accommodated.
  • Interstate traffic severely impacted, with road closures statewide.
  • Local State of Emergency declared in Hamilton County, Tennessee.

FAQ Section

What caused the flash flooding in Catoosa County?

Heavy rainfall, totaling nearly four inches in a short period, led to significant flash flooding in the area.

Were there any evacuations due to the flooding?

Yes, approximately 115 individuals were evacuated from The Crossings and Fountain Brooks apartment complexes due to flooding.

Were there any reported injuries?

No injuries were reported during the evacuation operations in Catoosa County.

What resources were provided to evacuees?

Evacuees were provided transportation to temporary shelters and received essentials like blankets and comforters from local donations.

Key Features of the Flooding Incident

Feature Details
Location Catoosa and Walker Counties, Georgia
Rainfall Amount Nearly 4 inches, with projections of 1-3 inches more
Evacuations Approximately 115 people evacuated
Impact on Roads About 20 roads closed, significant traffic disruptions on Interstate 24
Support Services Temporary shelters and pet accommodations were provided
Emergency Status Local State of Emergency declared in Hamilton County, TN

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Chattanooga Faces Severe Flash Flooding After Heavy Rain

Additional Resources

STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
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.

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