Toccoa River Hits Record High, Submerging Georgia and Tennessee Towns

Thunderstorms triggered record flooding across the Georgia-Tennessee border on Thursday, submerging buildings and forcing emergency crews to rescue dozens of residents.

The Toccoa River reached a peak of 18 feet at a gauge in Copperhill, Tennessee, according to local data. This level stood two feet above the threshold that forecasters define as catastrophic. The river drains from a mountainous region where between eight and ten inches of rain fell overnight across towns like Blue Ridge and Ellijay in North Georgia. The Tennessee Valley Authority reported that runoff from uncontrolled streams contributed to the high water levels at three of its hydroelectric dams.

In McCaysville, Georgia, water levels in the downtown business district reached six to seven feet. Police Chief Michael Earley told Fox5 Atlanta that some structures were submerged to their rooflines. He noted that one of his patrol cars was floating down the river during the peak of the storm. Copperhill officials urged residents to shelter in the city hall or the nearby McCaysville city hall as the water rose.

Swift water teams rescued at least 57 people before the floodwaters began to recede, according to the Fannin County Emergency Management Agency. Rescue crews used red boats and motorized rafts to move through the deep water flowing over downtown streets. Helicopters and drones assisted in searching for people trapped overhead. One firefighter sustained a minor injury, and several residents were treated for suspected hypothermia and shock, though Earley said most appeared to be okay.

The flooding disrupted local infrastructure, causing cellphone and power outages. The McCaysville water treatment plant was shut down, leading to a boil water advisory for the city. Heavy equipment and dump trucks became inaccessible due to the high water. McCaysville had recently reopened its renovated police station after a flood in August damaged the building and other local businesses. Earley described the new damage as devastating, noting that the town had been preparing for its Christmas parade and other holiday events.

The Toccoa River flows into the Ocoee River, where the Tennessee Valley Authority continues to manage water levels. The two towns, McCaysville and Copperhill, are known for scenic railroad rides that offer views of the river and surrounding mountains. Both communities remain on alert as emergency managers warn that flooded areas stay dangerous even after the rain stops.