Polk County Floods Force 68 Rescues

Tennessee swift-water teams completed 68 rescues in Polk County on Thursday.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, or TEMA, confirmed the count as the state responded to severe flooding. Polk County officials declared a state of emergency. The State Emergency Operations Center remained activated at Level 4, or Elevated, to coordinate the effort.

Heavy rain triggered the crisis. TEMA reported that 8 to 10 inches of precipitation fell overnight in parts of the watershed. This caused flash flooding primarily in Copperhill. The Ocoee River crested at 18.05 feet at about 6 a.m. on Thursday. This height surpassed the previous record of 17.75 feet. By 11 a.m. CT, the river level had dropped below action stage, but roads remained affected.

Emergency crews worked through the day to assist residents. Tennessee National Guard personnel from the 1-230th AHB conducted aerial rescue operations. TEMA requested the Guard's assistance in the afternoon. The Guard stated that flooding was expected to continue through the evening. Officials urged drivers to avoid flooded roads and follow local guidance.

Shelters and supply points opened for displaced families. The American Red Cross supports an evacuation center at Copper Basin Fire and Rescue. Essential supplies are available at a distribution site at Piggly Wiggly, located at 125 Five Points Drive in Copperhill. Copperhill Utilities issued a mandatory water-conservation notice. TEMA is working with the county to deliver water to residents.

Road conditions remain difficult in the region. Tennessee Department of Transportation crews are clearing mud from State Route 68. Other routes are still affected. Ocoee River State Park is closed due to flooding. In Copperhill, both bridges are closed. Grassy Creek Road at Rogers Creek Bridge is also shut down. The Polk County Road Department said a large structure broke from its foundation and struck that bridge. State inspectors will assess the damage after the water recedes.

The flooding extended across the state line into Georgia. McCaysville officials declared a state of emergency and closed the city to unauthorized personnel. Access points include Highway 68 from Tennessee. Schools in Polk County and in Georgia's Fannin and Gilmer counties closed on Thursday due to hazardous road conditions.