80+ people rescued from floodwaters in Copperhill/McCaysville area, Ocoee River crests at a record 18.05 feet

From Local 3 News & TVA: Historic flooding has devastated parts of Copperhill, Tennessee, and neighboring McCaysville, Georgia, following torrential rainfall Wednesday night into Thursday morning. The flooding has prompted dozens of water rescues, widespread road closures, and emergency evacuations.

The Ocoee River reached a record 18.05 feet in Copperhill around six Thursday morning. That surpassed the previous record of 17.75 feet and was more than four feet above major flood stage.

According to the Tennessee Valley Authority, storms dumped between eight and ten inches of rain across portions of the region. Local 3 Meteorologist Clay Smith reported one location northwest of Blue Ridge received more than eleven inches of rain in less than six hours.

Rescue crews worked throughout the day Thursday, pulling residents and pets from flooded homes and vehicles. Fannin County Emergency Management reported at least 80 people had been rescued by swift-water teams as of five Thursday afternoon.

Both bridges in Copperhill were closed, along with numerous roads throughout the region. Grassy Creek Road remains closed at Rogers Creek Bridge after a large structure broke loose from its foundation and struck the bridge. State inspectors will evaluate possible structural damage once conditions allow.

Access to McCaysville has also been restricted, including entrances along Highway 68, River Road, Mobile Road, and Blue Ridge Drive.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency activated its Emergency Operations Center to Level Four, and Polk County declared a state of emergency.

Copperhill officials have also implemented a mandatory curfew in flood-affected areas from six in the evening until six in the morning.

Flooding has disrupted several local services. The Copperhill Post Office has temporarily suspended operations, with customers directed to the Ducktown location.

Blue Ridge Scenic Railway excursions have been canceled through Sunday, November eighth, while the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is adjusting upcoming Copperhill excursions.

Meanwhile, United Way of the Ocoee Region has established a Copperhill Flood Emergency Fund to assist families and local businesses affected by the disaster.

Those wishing to contribute can text the word COPPERHILL to 41444 or visit United Way’s website at unitedwayocoee.org.

Residents needing disaster recovery assistance and other community resources can also dial 2-1-1.

Although floodwaters have begun receding, authorities continue urging residents to avoid damaged roads, obey barricades, and stay away from flooded areas.