Georgia declares state of emergency as flooding triggers dozens of rescues

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 5 Nov, 13:41 · Archive

Flash flooding in north Georgia has prompted a state of emergency in McCaysville, with emergency crews conducting more than 30 water rescues.

Flash flooding across north Georgia prompted a state of emergency in McCaysville on Thursday, with emergency personnel undertaking more than 30 water rescues using boats. Flash flood warnings were issued for Chatsworth, Ellijay and Blue Ridge, Georgia. The Fannin County Emergency Management Agency advised residents to stay off the roads due to dangerous floodwaters.

McCaysville police Chief Michael Earley described the severity of the situation, stating: 'I've never seen flooding like this in my life.' Water levels in some areas downtown reached 6 to 7 feet high. The agency reported that numerous residents still needed to be evacuated, including some in areas that emergency crews were unable to access or reach due to the flooding and dangerous conditions.

The Toccoa River crested at 17.73 feet as of 8 a.m. Thursday, just shy of the record height. Heavy rains battered the region Wednesday night as powerful storms rolled into north Georgia. Fannin and Gilmer counties cancelled school because of the widespread storm damage.

How it is being reported

• Flooding prompts state of emergency in Georgia as crews conduct more than 30 rescuesFlooding across north Georgia prompted a state of emergency, more than 30 water rescues and evacuation efforts in affected communities.Kfyrtv · 5 Nov, 13:15
• Flooding prompts state of emergency in Georgia as crews conduct more than 30 rescuesFlooding across north Georgia prompted a state of emergency, more than 30 water rescues and evacuation efforts in affected communities.Valleynewslive · 5 Nov, 13:15

In this story: McCaysville · Georgia · Michael Earley · Chatsworth · Ellijay · Blue Ridge · Toccoa River · Fannin County Emergency Management Agency

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