Chattanooga, August 13, 2025
News Summary
Chattanooga has declared a Local State of Emergency due to record-breaking flooding from heavy rainfall, causing road closures and school cancellations. With 6.42 inches of rainfall recorded, the city is facing significant weather challenges. Hamilton County Schools are closed to ensure the safety of students, and residents are urged to avoid flooded areas. Emergency management is coordinating ongoing safety measures as evacuation sites are established.
Chattanooga Declares Local State of Emergency Following Record-Breaking Flooding
Chattanooga has declared a Local State of Emergency following unprecedented flooding caused by heavy rainfall that resulted in road closures and school cancellations. The city experienced its second-wettest day on record, receiving 6.42 inches of rain, nearly doubling the average precipitation expected for August in just one day.
In response to the flooding, Hamilton County Schools announced their closure for Wednesday, August 13, after initially planning for a two-hour delay. The decision to close schools was made to ensure student safety amidst the ongoing weather concerns.
Flood warnings remain in effect until later Tuesday night, with the National Weather Service (NWS) continuing to issue alerts regarding ongoing flash flooding. Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution and stay clear of flooded areas. The NWS has stated the importance of following the safety advice to “turn around, don’t drown” to prevent accidents on flooded roads.
Road Closures and Traffic Issues
As a result of the rainfall, numerous major roads have been closed, including:
- East Brainerd Road (SR 320) at Gunbarrel Road.
- I-24 at McBrien Road, which was initially closed in both directions.
Fortunately, trapped traffic on I-24 West has been cleared, and all lanes on I-24 East are now open to motorists. However, the Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office continues to urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel and remain in safe locations.
Coordinated Emergency Response
Mayor Weston Wamp is actively coordinating efforts with the Director of Emergency Management and the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), as well as the Governor’s Office, to manage the crisis. An evacuation site has been established at the Chris Ramsey Brainerd Recreation Center for those who may need assistance.
Ongoing Threats and Safety Measures
The flash flood warning is in effect until 10:45 PM EDT for areas including Chattanooga and southeastern Hamilton County. Ongoing thunderstorms are expected to contribute to the heavy rainfall and possible flash flooding. Areas particularly at risk include Chattanooga, Ridgeside, Harrison, South Cleveland, and Red Bank. The NWS advises residents of these regions to stay alert and prepared for potential evacuations.
As photographs and videos circulate showing multiple vehicles stranded in floodwaters across the area, it is crucial for all residents to heed safety warnings and follow the instructions of local authorities during this challenging weather event.
Summary of Key Data
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Rainfall Amount | 6.42 inches |
| School Closures | Hamilton County Schools closed on August 13 |
| Emergency Declaration | Local State of Emergency declared by Mayor Weston Wamp |
| Evacuation Site | Chris Ramsey Brainerd Recreation Center |
| Road Closures | East Brainerd Road at Gunbarrel Road; I-24 at McBrien Road |
| Flood Warning | In effect until 10:45 PM EDT |
FAQ
What caused the flooding in Chattanooga?
The flooding was caused by record-breaking rainfall that totaled 6.42 inches in one day, which is nearly double the normal precipitation for August.
Are local schools closed due to the flooding?
Yes, Hamilton County Schools are closed on August 13, following an initial announcement of a two-hour delay.
What should residents do to stay safe during the flooding?
Residents are advised to avoid driving, stay indoors if possible, and heed warnings from local authorities. If evacuation is necessary, individuals should proceed to the established evacuation site at the Chris Ramsey Brainerd Recreation Center.
How long will the flood warnings be in effect?
The flash flood warnings are currently in effect until 10:45 PM EDT for areas including Chattanooga and southeastern Hamilton County.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Flooding Causes Problems & Evacuations
- Wikipedia: Chattanooga
- New York Times: Flooding in Chattanooga, Tennessee
- Google Search: Chattanooga flooding
- CNN: Chattanooga Rain Flood Video
- Google Scholar: Chattanooga floods
- WBIR: Heavy Rains Flooding Chattanooga
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flooding in Tennessee
- Hindustan Times: Chattanooga Flooding Chaos
- Google News: Chattanooga floods
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