Historic Flooding Hits Ocoee River Region, Shattering Water-Level Record
It’s not just the desert Southwest of the Rockies getting record floods this fall. Mother Nature strikes again, this time with historic flooding hitting North Georgia and East Tennessee.
During a major weather event on November 4–5, more than 11 inches of rain fell across the Ocoee River region, impacting the Tennessee communities of Copperhill and Ducktown, along with neighboring McCaysville, Georgia.
The historic rainfall triggered catastrophic flooding in the communities, which sit in valleys surrounded by mountains. The deluge also sent the Ocoee River surging past 18 feet, surpassing the previous record of 17.8 feet set in 1990.
The flooding comes on the heels of devastating floods across the southwestern United States last week.
Local 3 News has published a timeline documenting the flooding and its tragic aftermath, which included evacuations and the declaration of a state of emergency.
Local authorities have issued water advisories, closed roads in the hardest-hit areas, and implemented a curfew as communities begin dealing with the aftermath.
Paddler Safety Warning
While the sight of a flooded Ocoee may be tempting for curious paddlers, this is not the time to visit or get on the river. Paddlers should avoid the area and stay off the water until local authorities and river managers have determined conditions are safe.
Beyond the extreme water levels and powerful currents, floodwaters can carry large debris, submerged hazards, and potentially hazardous materials from damaged buildings, vehicles, and infrastructure. River features and access points may also have been altered or damaged.
Just as importantly, emergency personnel and recovery crews need clear access to the affected communities. Please give first responders room to work, respect road closures, and avoid adding unnecessary traffic to an already difficult situation.
How to Help
There are several ways to support those affected by the flooding. The local United Way chapter has established the Copperhill Flood Emergency Fund.
To donate:
- Text COPPERHILL to 41444.
- Visit www.unitedwayocoee.org/give and select COPPERHILL FLOOD EMERGENCY FUND from the designation dropdown.