State activates Level 4 emergency response for Polk County flooding

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency activated the State Emergency Operations Center to Level 4 on Thursday to address severe flooding in Polk County and communities along the Tennessee-Georgia border. The activation follows flash flooding that has closed key transportation routes and triggered rescue operations in the region.

The Ocoee River at Copperhill reached a record height of 18.05 feet at approximately 6 a.m. Thursday, surpassing the previous record of 17.75 feet. The river is designated as the Toccoa River across the state line in Georgia. As a result, both bridges in Copperhill are closed, along with Grassy Creek Road at Rogers Creek Bridge.

The Polk County Road Department reported that a large structure broke from its foundation and struck the Rogers Creek Bridge. State inspectors are scheduled to assess the damage once the water recedes. In Georgia, McCaysville officials declared a state of emergency and closed the city to unauthorized personnel. Access to the area remains open through Highway 68 from Tennessee.

School closures extended across the border due to hazardous road conditions. Polk County Schools in Tennessee closed for Thursday, as did schools in Georgia’s Fannin and Gilmer counties. The Tennessee National Guard stated that rescue crews from the 1-230th AHB are assisting with aerial rescue operations at the request of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, and Tennessee Highway Patrol are coordinating their response efforts. As of 11 a.m. Thursday, TDOT reported that floodwaters are beginning to recede in some areas. Emergency officials expect the flooding to continue through the evening.

Officials are urging residents to avoid flooded roads and follow local guidance. Crews will continue to assess damage as conditions allow. The Tennessee National Guard emphasized the importance of staying out of flooded areas until local officials provide further updates.