Afternoon Storms and Rising Heat Index Values Expected Through Saturday
A muggy and unsettled weather pattern will continue across the region through the end of the week, bringing daily chances for isolated to scattered afternoon showers and thunderstorms.
The National Weather Service says storms will be possible each afternoon through Saturday, especially during the heat of the day. Any storms that develop could produce frequent lightning, gusty winds, and locally heavy rainfall.
For Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, rain chances will not be widespread every day, but residents should remain weather-aware during the afternoon and evening hours.
Temperatures will continue climbing into the upper 80s and lower 90s, with humid conditions making it feel even hotter. Heat index values are expected to rise into the 90s, with some areas approaching the low 100s by the end of the week and into the weekend.
Patchy dense fog and low clouds may also develop during the morning hours, especially in areas that received heavy rain earlier in the week.
A weak frontal boundary is expected to move into Northwest Georgia late Friday and stall across the state over the weekend. That setup will help keep moisture in place and maintain daily chances for showers and storms.
Forecasters are also watching a possible weak tropical system in the southern Gulf of Mexico. While no immediate local impacts are expected, the system could help send deeper moisture into Georgia by the middle of next week.
Anyone spending time outdoors should take breaks, drink plenty of water, and head indoors when thunder is heard.
Rainwater Recognized for 50 Years of Service to Chattooga County
Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy A. McElhaney and the staff of the Chattooga County Coroner’s Office are recognizing Senior Deputy Coroner William Earle Rainwater for 50 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Chattooga County.
Rainwater has spent more than four decades serving the county as its elected coroner, first winning election to the office in 1976. He was reelected every term thereafter, serving 48 years as coroner before transitioning to the role of Senior Deputy Coroner, a position he has held for the past two years.
His half-century of service makes Rainwater one of the longest-serving coroners in the State of Georgia.
In 2024, Rainwater’s decades of commitment to public service were recognized statewide when he received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Georgia Coroners Association. The award was presented during the association’s fall meeting in Warner Robins, where fellow coroners from across Georgia honored him for his 48 years of service as Chattooga County Coroner.
Coroner Jeremy McElhaney said Rainwater’s dedication, experience, and commitment to serving families during some of life’s most difficult moments have left a lasting impact on Chattooga County and set a standard for public service.
Coming Up This Saturday: Sensory-Friendly Touch A Truck Event in Summerville
The City of Summerville will host a sensory-friendly “Touch A Truck” event this Saturday, June 13, from 10 a.m. until noon on East Washington Street.
Mayor Rickey Hughes announced the event, which is designed especially for individuals with special needs and their families.
Touch A Truck events give children and families the chance to safely explore vehicles and equipment they may normally only see from a distance, including fire trucks, police cars, ambulances, tractors, tow trucks, and other community vehicles.
These events are also important because they help children become more comfortable with first responders and emergency vehicles in a positive, low-pressure setting. For individuals with autism, sensory processing challenges, or other special needs, a reduced-noise environment can make the experience more welcoming and accessible.
Attendees will be able to see the vehicles up close, interact with local first responders and community helpers, and enjoy hands-on learning at their own pace.
Free Kona Ice will also be available thanks to sponsorships from United Community Bank and Southeast First National Bank.
Mayor Hughes thanked local exhibitors and sponsors for helping make the event possible, saying it will be a special day for families across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.
The community is invited to attend and take part in a morning of learning, exploration, and fun in a safe and inclusive setting.
Summerville Student Represents GNTC at National SkillsUSA Competition
A Summerville student was among six Georgia Northwestern Technical College students who represented the college at the 2026 SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference held June 1-5 in Atlanta.
Jonah Nuckolls of Summerville competed as part of GNTC’s TeamWorks team, alongside Caleb Greeson of Dalton, Connor Rowell of Rome and Jackson Woodard of Calhoun.
GNTC students competed in three categories at the national event, which brought together more than 6,500 state champions competing for gold, silver and bronze medals in 114 skilled and leadership competitions.
One GNTC student, Janie Ruiz of Rome, earned a bronze medal in the Customer Service competition. Ruiz studies Business Management at GNTC’s Floyd County Campus.
Missy McLain, SkillsUSA advisor for GNTC, said she was proud of all the competitors for their hard work and for representing the college on the national level.
The national conference drew an estimated 19,000 students, instructors and industry partners.
SkillsUSA serves more than 444,000 career and technical education students and instructors each year and has served 15 million members since 1965.
Summerville Police Investigate Assault at Convenience Store
The Summerville Police Department is investigating an assault that reportedly occurred at a convenience store and involved a woman being pushed and punched by her boyfriend.
According to the incident report, officers responded to a complaint from a female employee who stated that her boyfriend entered the store while she was working and began acting in a loud and disorderly manner.
The victim told police that during the incident, the suspect pushed her on two separate occasions and later struck her in the face with a closed fist during a third confrontation.
After arriving on scene, the responding officer reviewed surveillance video from the store. According to the report, the footage showed the suspect pushing the victim twice and striking her in the face during the altercation.
The victim declined emergency medical services and reported that the suspect had left the area before officers arrived. She told police he fled in a green pickup truck and that she did not know his whereabouts.
The suspect was identified as 33-year-old Tyrone Smith of Trion. He is listed in the report as facing charges of simple battery, battery, and disorderly conduct.
The incident remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department.
Two Guided Hikes Planned Saturday at Sloppy Floyd State Park
James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park will host two guided hikes on Saturday, June 13, giving visitors a chance to enjoy the park by day and night.
The first event will be a Guided Marble Mine Hike at 2 p.m. Park rangers will lead participants on a moderately strenuous 1.5-mile hike to the Marble Mine, where hikers can learn about the park’s nature and history while exploring the Marble Mine Trail. Participants should meet at the park office, bring water, and wear comfortable shoes.
Later that evening, the park will host a Firefly Night Hike along the Upper Lake Trail. Participants will meet at the park office at 8:30 p.m., with the hike beginning at 9 p.m. The event will give visitors a chance to see the glow of fireflies and learn how they can help protect them.
Each hike is $3 per person, and a $10 park pass is required. Registration is required for both events.
To register or for more information, call the park office at 706-857-0826.
Georgia Drivers Saved Nearly $200 Million During Temporary Gas Tax Suspension
Georgia motorists saved an estimated $188 million during a temporary suspension of the state’s motor fuel tax that ended June 2, according to newly released state revenue figures.
The tax relief measure, approved earlier this year by Governor Brian Kemp and state lawmakers, temporarily reduced the cost of gasoline and diesel fuel for consumers across Georgia. The suspension was intended to help offset higher fuel costs and provide financial relief to families and businesses.
State officials reported that fuel tax collections dropped significantly during the period the tax break was in effect, contributing to lower overall revenue from motor fuel taxes. Despite the decline in fuel tax collections, Georgia’s broader revenue picture remained stable due to strong collections from other tax sources.
The savings translated into lower prices at the pump for drivers statewide, with the average motorist paying several cents less per gallon during the suspension. State leaders have frequently used temporary fuel tax suspensions in recent years as a way to provide relief during periods of elevated fuel prices or economic uncertainty.
With the tax break now expired, Georgia’s full motor fuel tax rate has returned, meaning drivers are once again paying the standard state tax on gasoline and diesel purchases.
Supporters of the measure say it delivered meaningful savings to Georgia households, while critics note the temporary suspension also reduced transportation-related revenues that help fund road and infrastructure projects.
Summerville Police Investigating Financial Transaction Fraud Case
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a financial transaction card fraud case after a Dalton woman reported unauthorized purchases made using her debit card information.
According to the incident report, the victim discovered several unauthorized transactions had been made using information from her food stamp debit card. The purchases reportedly occurred at multiple locations, including Ingles Supermarket in Summerville.
The victim told police she still had possession of the physical card but believed someone had obtained the information needed to make purchases without authorization. She has been working with law enforcement agencies in multiple jurisdictions where transactions were reported in an effort to identify and prosecute the suspect.
Police identified a suspect in the case as 27-year-old Nius Morton of Dalton. The report indicates the offense is being investigated as financial transaction card fraud.
The fraudulent transaction reported in Summerville totaled approximately $29.43. Evidence collected in the case included information associated with the victim’s card.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Red Cross Issues Urgent Call for Blood Donors as Summer Begins
The American Red Cross is urging eligible donors to schedule blood donation appointments as an alarming decline in donations threatens to impact the nation’s blood supply heading into the busy summer months.
The organization says donors of all blood types are needed to help ensure hospitals have a stable supply of lifesaving blood products available for patients in need.
According to the Red Cross, the combination of end-of-school activities, summer vacations, and school breaks has contributed to a significant drop in scheduled blood donations in recent weeks. The start of the Atlantic hurricane season on June 1 also raises concerns, as severe weather can disrupt blood drives and limit donation opportunities in affected areas.
Red Cross officials are encouraging donors to take action now by scheduling an appointment through RedCrossBlood.org, by calling 1-800-RED CROSS, or by using the Red Cross Blood Donor App.
As an added incentive, individuals who donate blood between June 1 and June 28, 2026, will receive a $15 e-gift card to a merchant of their choice. Donors will also be automatically entered for a chance to win one of two $7,500 gift cards. Additional information is available at RedCrossBlood.org/June.
The Red Cross emphasizes that regular blood donations are essential to maintaining an adequate supply for emergency situations, surgeries, cancer treatments, and other critical medical needs throughout the summer.
Northwest Georgia Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison
A Northwest Georgia man with a lengthy criminal history has been sentenced to nine years in federal prison for trafficking fentanyl while armed with a firearm.
Sincere M. Billingslea, a three-time convicted felon, received the sentence after being convicted on federal drug and firearm charges stemming from fentanyl distribution activities in northwest Georgia.
According to federal prosecutors, Billingslea sold fentanyl while in possession of a firearm despite being legally prohibited from possessing weapons because of his prior felony convictions. Authorities say the case highlights the ongoing threat posed by fentanyl trafficking, which continues to contribute to overdose deaths and public safety concerns across Georgia and the nation.
Federal officials emphasized that fentanyl is an extremely potent synthetic opioid, with even small amounts capable of causing fatal overdoses.
Following his prison sentence, Billingslea will also be subject to a period of supervised release.
The investigation was conducted by federal, state and local law enforcement agencies, with prosecution handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia.
Federal authorities said the sentence reflects their continued commitment to targeting armed drug traffickers and removing dangerous narcotics from communities throughout northwest Georgia.
Arrest Report - Thursday - June 9, 2026
There were no arrests reported on the jail media report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, June 9, 2026.
Stormy Pattern Keeps Northwest Georgia on Alert This Week
A damp and unsettled weather pattern will remain parked over North Georgia this week, bringing repeated opportunities for showers and thunderstorms across Chattooga County and surrounding areas.
Forecasters say the highest rain chances for North Georgia are expected from Wednesday through Friday. While rain is not expected everywhere at all times, any storms that develop could bring frequent lightning, gusty winds, and locally heavy rainfall.
The main concern will be storms that move slowly or repeatedly pass over the same areas. That could lead to quick rainfall totals and localized flooding, especially in low-lying areas, near creeks and streams, or in places that have already received heavy rain.
Those with outdoor plans, including campers and hikers, are urged to keep a close eye on the forecast and be ready to move indoors if thunderstorms approach.
Temperatures will remain somewhat limited by clouds and rain early in the week, with highs generally in the 70s and 80s across Northwest Georgia. By late week, warmer and more humid conditions are expected, pushing heat index values into the 90s.
A frontal boundary approaching the region this weekend could keep daily thunderstorm chances in the forecast into early next week.
Chamber of Commerce Hosting AfterWork Meet Up Thursday
The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is inviting members and prospective members to a special AfterWork Meet Up this Thursday evening at Dos Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant in Summerville.
The networking event will take place Thursday, June 11, from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. and is designed to provide a relaxed setting for local business professionals to connect and build relationships.
According to the Chamber, the event is intended to be a social and networking opportunity where attendees can talk shop—or anything but work. Dos Maguey’s will offer drink specials, and the Chamber will provide appetizers for those attending.
The Chamber is not hosting its regular luncheons during June and July and is instead offering these lower-key summer networking gatherings.
While tickets are not required, organizers encourage attendees to RSVP. For more information, contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce at 706-857-4033.
The event is open to Chamber members and those interested in learning more about the local business community.
Chattooga County Grand Jury Indicts Summerville Man in Church Vandalism Case
A Chattooga County Grand Jury has indicted a Summerville man accused of vandalizing a local church earlier this year.
According to the indictment, Codie Mac Creekmore, of 170 Piedmont Avenue, Summerville, was formally charged in connection with the alleged vandalism of a place of worship.
The charge stems from a January 6 incident at United By Faith Baptist Church, located off Highway 114 in Summerville.
Prosecutors allege Creekmore forcefully pulled on the church’s locked front doors until the hinges were torn away, causing more than $500 in damage.
The case has now been bound over to Chattooga County Superior Court, where Creekmore will face the felony charge. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances surrounding the alleged vandalism.
An indictment is a formal accusation and does not constitute a finding of guilt. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.
Blessing Creek Farms Petting Zoo Coming to Chattooga Library Today
Families looking for a fun and educational summer activity can visit the Chattooga County Library today as the Sara Hightower Regional Library System hosts a special petting zoo event featuring animals from Blessing Creek Farms.
The event will take place today from 2 p.m. until 4 p.m. at the Chattooga County Library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Children and families will have the opportunity to meet and interact with a variety of animals, including Highland calves, a pony, goats, and rabbits from Blessing Creek Farms.
Library officials say the event is open to the public and is designed to provide a fun, hands-on experience for children during the summer months.
The two-hour event is free to attend and is expected to be a popular attraction for local families.
For more information, contact the Chattooga County Library.
Fuel Tax Suspension Contributes to Drop in Georgia's May Tax Revenue
Georgia’s temporary suspension of the state motor fuel tax contributed to a significant decline in tax collections during May, according to state revenue figures.
State officials reported that net tax revenues for May declined by 12.6 percent compared to the same month a year ago. The decrease comes after Georgia suspended its motor fuel excise tax for part of May in an effort to provide relief to drivers facing higher fuel costs. The suspension remained in effect through June 2.
The gas tax holiday temporarily removed Georgia’s fuel excise tax, which currently amounts to about 33 cents per gallon on gasoline. State leaders said the suspension was intended to help offset rising fuel prices and reduce costs for consumers at the pump.
While the suspension provided relief for motorists, it also reduced one of the state’s major sources of transportation-related revenue. The tax is normally collected at the wholesale level and helps fund transportation and infrastructure projects throughout Georgia.
The gas tax suspension officially expired on June 3, and state officials have indicated it will not be extended. As a result, motorists across Georgia may continue to see fuel prices fluctuate throughout the summer as the tax returns and market conditions evolve.
Chattooga Athletic Booster Club Golf Tournament Set for June 20
The Chattooga Athletic Booster Club is gearing up for its fifth annual golf tournament, with proceeds benefiting athletic programs at Chattooga High School.
The tournament is scheduled for Saturday, June 20, at the Trion Golf Course. The event will feature a four-man scramble format with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m.
Registration is $320 per team, and Mulligans will be available for purchase separately.
Participants will enjoy lunch, compete for cash prizes, and have an opportunity to win a pellet grill through a raffle that will be available during registration.
Local businesses and community supporters can also help support Chattooga High School athletics by purchasing $100 hole sponsorships.
Organizers say proceeds from the tournament will go directly toward supporting athletic programs at Chattooga High School.
Youth Travel Volleyball Interest Meeting Scheduled in Summerville
Parents of girls interested in travel volleyball will have an opportunity to learn more about a potential new program during an upcoming interest meeting at the Summerville Recreation Center.
The meeting is scheduled for Friday, June 12, from 6 p.m. until 8 p.m. and is open to parents of girls ages 9 to 15 who may be interested in participating in travel volleyball.
According to the announcement, the purpose of the meeting is to gauge interest levels in each age group and provide general information about the program. Organizers say that if enough interest exists to form teams, tryout dates will be announced at a later time.
Those seeking additional information can contact the organizer through the email address listed in the announcement.
Georgia Gas Prices Level Off as Summer Travel Season Begins
Georgia gas prices are beginning to level off after recent declines slowed over the past week. According to AAA, the state average is now just one cent lower than last week, but still 25 cents higher than last month and 97 cents higher than this time last year.
For drivers filling up a standard 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline, the cost is approximately $57.60.
AAA says demand remains steady as the summer travel season gets underway, despite higher prices and continued inflation. The slowdown in price declines also follows the end of Georgia’s gas tax suspension, which had helped keep fuel costs lower for drivers.
“Gas prices in Georgia are relatively steady right now, but drivers should expect them to rise and fall throughout the summer,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “With the state’s gas tax suspension now lifted and continued uncertainty overseas, it’s hard to predict how high prices could go. The best approach is for drivers to stay mindful of fuel costs and look for ways to save at the pump whenever possible.”
Nationally, the average price for a gallon of regular gas has dropped 16 cents from last week to $4.17, marking the third straight week of declines. AAA says prices are easing as crude oil remains below $100 per barrel, offering some relief for drivers. However, uncertainty surrounding when the Strait of Hormuz will fully reopen continues to affect the market, and oil prices are not expected to fall significantly as summer demand increases.
Across Georgia, Atlanta’s average is $3.84 per gallon. The most expensive metro markets in the state are Hinesville-Fort Stewart at $3.97, Macon at $3.92, and Valdosta at $3.89. The least expensive metro markets are Albany at $3.68, Catoosa-Dade-Walker at $3.69, and Dalton at $3.74.
Locally, average prices include Chattooga County at $3.79, Walker County at $3.67, Floyd County at $3.73, Gordon County at $3.74, DeKalb County, Alabama at $3.74, and Cherokee County, Alabama at $3.68.
Drivers can find current gas prices and electric vehicle charging locations along their route using AAA’s TripTik Travel Planner.
Spark Day Event Planned for June 27 at Dowdy Park
A special community event focused on supporting individuals with special needs and connecting families with valuable resources is coming to Summerville later this month.
Spark Day will be held on Saturday, June 27, from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Dowdy Park.
Organizers say the event is designed to bring together the special needs community, local service providers, entrepreneurs, and families for a day of fun, fellowship, and information sharing.
Activities will include a foam party, free food, vendors, and opportunities to learn about available medical, respite, and community services. Attendees will also have the chance to meet special-needs entrepreneurs and browse a variety of vendor offerings.
According to promotional materials, free nachos will be available, and visitors can enjoy art, baked goods, coffee, jewelry, T-shirts, and a community resource meet-and-greet.
Organizers encourage families, caregivers, and community members to attend and show their support while learning more about resources available for individuals with special needs in the region.