Heavy rains trigger flash flooding across North Georgia – Atlanta News First

Heavy rains trigger flash flooding across North Georgia  Atlanta News First

Several north Georgia cities are under flash flood warnings early Thursday due to heavy rains the night before. ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) — Several north Georgia cities are under flash flood warnings early Thursday due to heavy rains the night before. McCaysville, which is on the Georgia-Tennessee border, is under a state of emergency after the city was inundated with rushing water from the nearly Toccoa River. More than 30 water rescues were undertaken by emergency personnel manning boats, said Michael Earley, McCaysville’s chief of police. “I’ve never seen flooding like this in my life,” Earley said, adding that the water in some areas downtown was 6-7 feet high. “Anybody that’s willing to help, we’re asking for help.” Chatsworth, Ellijay and Blue Ridge received flash flood warnings until 7 a.m.

The National Weather Service has put McCaysville under a flash flood emergency until 11 a.m. The Fannin County Emergency Management Agency advised residents to stay off the roads due to dangerous floodwaters. “We still have numerous residents who need to be evacuated, including some in areas that emergency crews are currently unable to access or reach due to flooding and dangerous conditions,” the agency said. The Toccoa River crested to a record-high 18 feet after starting to recede, Earley said. He added that vehicles were floating down the river.