Record Floods: Toccoa River Breaches Banks, 57 Rescued
Thunderstorms dropped up to 10 inches of rain, submerging downtown businesses and forcing evacuations in McCaysville and Copperhill.
By Kofi Costa ·
At least 57 people were rescued by swift water teams on Thursday as record flooding submerged buildings in McCaysville, Georgia, and Copperhill, Tennessee. The emergency response occurred overnight after thunderstorms dumped heavy rain on the mountainous region, causing the Toccoa River to reach a historic high of 18 feet. This level stood two feet above the threshold that forecasters designate as catastrophic.
The Tennessee Valley Authority reported that between 8 and 10 inches of rain fell between Blue Ridge and Ellijay. This volume of precipitation swelled uncontrolled streams, which then fed into the Toccoa and subsequently the Ocoee River. TVA officials managed high water levels at three hydroelectric dams in response to the surge.
Copperhill officials urged the roughly 500 residents to take shelter in the City Hall buildings in either town. Across the river in McCaysville, which has a population of about 1,000, the downtown business district saw water levels rise to 6 or 7 feet. McCaysville Police Chief Michael Earley stated that a police vehicle floated down the river during the event, though its final location remained unknown.
Rescue crews used red boats and motorized rafts to navigate the rushing water over downtown streets. Helicopters and drones assisted ground personnel in searching for individuals who needed evacuation. The Fannin County Emergency Management Agency warned that flooded areas remain hazardous even after the rain ceases.
One firefighter sustained a minor injury, and several residents received treatment for suspected hypothermia and shock. Chief Earley noted that everyone appeared to be in stable condition. The response was hindered by power and cellphone outages, which also forced a boil water advisory after the McCaysville water treatment plant was shut down.
The flooding marks the second major event for the area in three months. A similar flood in August damaged the police station and post office. The renovated police building had reopened just one week prior to this incident. Chief Earley described the situation as devastating for a community preparing for Christmas events and a parade.
He commented on the recurrence of the disaster by asking, "I don’t know what God is trying to tell me." The twin towns, known for scenic railroad rides and river views, are now focused on assessing the damage to their businesses and infrastructure.
