A stretch of unusually warm November weather is setting up across Northwest Georgia and Chattooga County, and it’s expected to last well into next week.

Temperatures are running far above what we normally see this time of year, and forecasters say several daily record highs may be challenged between Wednesday and Friday. Across our area, highs will climb into the upper 70s, and in some spots even reach the low 80s — roughly 15 to 20 degrees above seasonal averages. While we’re used to mild spells in the fall, this level of warmth is well outside the norm for mid-November, and the National Blend of Models gives places like Atlanta and Athens around a 30% chance to actually tie or break long-standing temperature records. Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County, will be right in the middle of this warm pattern.

Rain chances return briefly tonight and early Wednesday, but they will be limited mainly to communities north of Interstate 20, which includes the mountains and portions of Northwest Georgia. A weak front and an upper-level trough moving through the Ohio Valley will help generate some light showers after 10 PM, with the best chances — around 50 to 60 percent — between 1 AM and 7 AM.

Chattooga County could see a few sprinkles, but most measurable rainfall will fall north of us. Even where rain does develop, totals are expected to stay light, generally a tenth of an inch or less, with isolated spots picking up as much as a quarter inch. Forecasters say the atmosphere could support a couple of lightning strikes, but no severe weather is expected, as instability remains elevated rather than surface-based.

After those morning showers diminish Wednesday, dry weather takes over again, and temperatures will quickly rebound into the upper 70s by afternoon across Northwest Georgia. That warming trend continues into Thursday and Friday, with highs once again pushing well above normal.

Unfortunately, this brief mid-week rainfall won’t do much to help the ongoing drought affecting Chattooga County and surrounding areas. The next meaningful rain chance arrives on Saturday, as a developing storm system over Texas and Oklahoma pushes its moisture eastward. By Friday morning, deeper moisture will be knocking on Northwest Georgia’s doorstep, gradually spreading across the region through Friday afternoon and Friday night. Widespread showers are expected on Saturday, but at this point, rainfall totals still do not appear significant enough to make major improvements in drought conditions.

In summary, Northwest Georgia — including Chattooga County — can expect very warm temperatures, minimal rain chances tonight and early Wednesday, and a better chance for showers over the weekend as a new system approaches. Until then, prepare for a stretch of unseasonably warm, dry weather heading into the end of the week.

Chattooga County Sheriff’s Investigators arrested two people following a drug-related investigation at the Sequoyah Motel in Summerville. According to the sheriff’s office, deputies responded to an anonymous 911 call on November 4th reporting suspected drug activity in one of the rooms.

When deputies arrived, they spoke with the room’s renter, 51-year-old Richard Becker, who agreed to allow officers to search the area. During the search, investigators found a woman, identified as 40-year-old Shanda McCarren, sitting on the bed. Inside the room, officers discovered a broken glass device containing a white, crystal-like substance believed to be methamphetamine. Additional glass pipes and a clear jar with a powdery substance — later testing positive for fentanyl — were also recovered from a shared living area.

Both Becker and McCarren denied ownership of the drugs and paraphernalia, but because the items were found in a common space, both were taken into custody.

The pair face several charges, including possession of methamphetamine, possession of Schedule I drugs, and possession of drug-related objects. Deputies noted that all events were recorded on body-worn cameras. The investigation remains ongoing.

North Georgia Community Action has announced that the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP, will open for homebound and elderly households on December 1st, 2025. The program is administered through the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services and is designed to help qualifying residents with the cost of heating their homes during the winter months.

According to the announcement, homebound households are those in which all members are confined to the home because of medical conditions or disabilities. Elderly households are defined as those where every member is 65 or older, or where one member is 65 or older and the rest are under 18. All participants must provide verification of income, citizenship, Social Security numbers, and a recent heating or electric bill. Elderly households must also show proof of age for all members.

Assistance will be offered as a one-time payment made directly to the household’s energy supplier. Funds are limited, and the program operates strictly on a first-come, first-served basis once money is received from the state.

To apply, residents must contact the Community Service Center in their county beginning December 1st at 8:30 a.m., and callers are urged to keep trying until they reach someone, as voicemail messages will not be returned.

Chattooga County residents should call 706-857-0729

Walker County drivers should be aware of a new traffic change beginning next week. Osburn Road, from Myers Street to Highway 27, will be closed to through traffic starting Monday, November 24th, as crews begin utility work in the area.

Motorists will need to use Myers Street and Wilder Road as the designated detour routes to reach Highway 27. Officials say the closure is expected to remain in place for several weeks, and drivers should plan extra time for travel.

The update comes from Joe Legge, Director of Communications and Community Development.

An Armuchee man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he pointed a gun at another man’s head. Twenty-year-old Evan Jacob Stratton was booked into the Floyd County Jail on Sunday on one count of aggravated assault. According to jail records, the incident happened back on November 6th at a residence on Mark Street, where Stratton allegedly aimed a firearm at the victim during a confrontation. Stratton remains held on the felony charge as the investigation continues.

Chattooga County families needing a little extra support heading into the Thanksgiving season are encouraged to take part in tomorrow’s 9th Annual Home for the Holidays Food Distribution, hosted by Chattooga Family Connection.

The large drive-thru event will take place Thursday, November 20th, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Community Resource Center of Chattooga, located at 50 Eleanor Avenue in Summerville.

Event coordinator Maisha Ludy says the giveaway is open to all Chattooga County residents, with organizers preparing essential food items and community resources to help families during the holiday week. Parking will open at 12 noon, one hour before distribution begins, and each vehicle will be required to complete a short survey upon arrival.

Volunteers are being asked to arrive early as well, with check-in at the CRC scheduled for 10 a.m. to help with setup and distribution.

Chattooga Family Connection encourages anyone needing assistance to come out for Thursday’s event, which runs until 3 p.m. or while supplies last.

The Town of Trion is exploring a fresh new look, as the mayor and council consider adopting a redesigned town logo. The proposed design is filled with symbolism meant to reflect Trion’s identity and history.

At the top of the logo are the familiar ridges that frame the town’s landscape. The middle section features the bridge, along with an American flag, representing both Trion’s heritage and its connection to the greater community. The bottom portion depicts the river, a defining feature of the area.

All of these elements are woven together in a tapestry-like layout, paying tribute to the legacy of Mount Vernon Mill, which shaped Trion for generations. A graceful letter “T” runs through the center, tying everything together as a symbol of the Town of Trion itself.

Mayor Lanny Thomas says he is looking for honest public input — good or bad. He’s asking residents to review the proposed design and share whether they like it, and if not, to explain why, as the town works toward choosing a logo that truly represents the community.

A Summerville man is facing multiple traffic-related charges following a late-night incident documented by local police. According to court records, officers attempted to stop 42-year-old Clinton Dewayne Phillips on November 15, 2025, after observing him operating a 2010 Ford Edge on public roads.

The report states that Phillips was suspected of driving under the influence and refused to stop until reaching his residence. Officers noted that he refused all DUI testing, including blood, breath, and urine assessments.

In addition to the DUI-related charge, a second citation issued the same day states that Phillips was also operating the vehicle while his driver’s license was suspended. Officers said he continued driving despite commands to stop, eventually complying once he arrived home. Both citations were issued within the city limits of Summerville.

Phillips is scheduled to appear in Summerville Municipal Court, where failure to appear could result in further suspension of driving privileges under Georgia law. The case remains pending as court proceedings move forward.

There’s Hope For The Hungry is hosting a food distribution event today at South Summerville Baptist Church. The organization will be on-site from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m., providing free food to anyone in need within the community.

Organizers emphasize that no ID is required, and the process is designed to be simple and welcoming for all individuals and families. However, they do remind participants that food must be picked up in person, as no proxy pickups are allowed.

There’s Hope For The Hungry continues its mission of supporting local residents during difficult times, and today’s event offers an important opportunity for those facing food insecurity. Community members are encouraged to come out before 1 p.m. to take part in the distribution.

South Summerville Baptist Church is located on Highway 48, the Menlo Highway, just past Mason Funeral Home.

At 10:48 AM on Tuesday, November 18th, the Chattooga County Coroner’s Office was notified of a fatal structure fire on Maryland Drive. Coroner Jeremy McElhaney responded to the scene, where he pronounced an adult female deceased. On Tuesday evening, Coroner McElhaney released the victim’s name, identifying her as 43-year-old Bobbie Marie Blackmon.

The emergency began at 10:17 AM, when a neighbor called 911 to report the home engulfed in flames with a possible victim trapped inside. Fire crews from Summerville, Trion, and Hays State Prison arrived within minutes. Firefighters made an aggressive interior search and attacked the blaze, ultimately locating the victim and cutting a hole in the side of the home to rapidly remove her from the burning structure.

Despite their heroic efforts and rapid treatment by Atrium Floyd EMS, Blackmon did not survive.

The Chattooga County EMA and Sheriff’s Office Chaplain Joel Smith also responded, offering support to the family. The Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire, though officials say foul play is not suspected.

Blackmon’s body will be transported to the GBI Medical Examiner’s Office for further examination.

This marks the fourth fire fatality in Chattooga County in 2025. Coroner McElhaney is urging residents to use extreme caution with space heaters, fireplaces, and other heating devices as colder weather moves in.

A woman died in a devastating house fire that occurred early Tuesday morning off Back Penn Road near Maryland Drive. The incident has prompted a formal investigation, with the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office being called to the scene to determine the cause of the fatal blaze.

Chattooga County Coroner Jeremy McElhaney confirmed the single fatality, identifying the victim as an adult female resident who was trapped inside the structure during the fire.

According to statements from Coroner McElhaney, the emergency response was immediate and intense. The Summerville and Trion Fire Departments coordinated efforts to reach the trapped resident, who was reportedly heard yelling for help from inside the burning home.

“Summerville and Trion Fire immediately made entry and cut a hole in the outside wall to get her out,” McElhaney stated, highlighting the desperate, high-risk rescue attempt made by first responders. Despite their efforts, the victim succumbed to the fire.

Due to the nature and severity of the incident, the Georgia State Fire Marshal’s Office has been called to Chattooga County to lead the official investigation into the fire’s origin and cause.

Coroner McElhaney announced that the victim’s body will be transported to the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) crime lab for a detailed autopsy on Wednesday.

While the investigation is in its preliminary stages, officials currently do not suspect foul play.

The identity of the deceased is being withheld pending official notification of the next of kin.

“I will release the name once the family has time to notify everyone that they need to,” Coroner McElhaney confirmed.

Further updates regarding the investigation are expected following the review by the State Fire Marshal’s Office and the completion of the autopsy.

Coroner McElhaney told WZQZ news that this is the fourth fire fatality in Chattooga County in 2025.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, November 18, 2025:

A potent combination of unseasonably warm, dry air is set to grip Northwest Georgia this week, posing significant fire risks and threatening to shatter decades-old temperature records, according to the National Weather Service’s early morning forecast.

Residents are urged to exercise extreme caution as critical fire weather conditions are expected this afternoon. A Fire Danger Statement has been issued for central and western Georgia, where relative humidity levels are forecast to plummet into the low 20s. These parched conditions, coupled with dry vegetation, mean any spark could rapidly ignite a dangerous wildfire.

“Dry air still lingers across much of the southeast,” the NWS stated in its Short Term Forecast issued at 4:20 AM EST. “Relative humidities are expected to drop into the low 20s again this afternoon.”

The immediate fire weather threat is expected to lessen slightly by Wednesday as southerly winds return. However, this shift will usher in a significant and prolonged warming trend. Above-normal temperatures are predicted to persist into next week, with a 70% chance that several daily record highs will be broken between Wednesday and Friday.

Forecasters predict highs will soar into the mid-70s to low-80s across the region, a staggering 15 to 20 degrees above the average for mid-November.

“We’ll actually be on record watch for daytime highs these days,” the NWS report noted, indicating that all four major climate reporting sites in the area are forecast to either break, tie, or closely approach historical records.

While a weak weather system may bring some light showers to northern Georgia Tuesday night, and a more widespread chance of rain arrives on Saturday, meteorologists warn it will do little to alleviate the ongoing drought.

“QPF values are up to 0.5 inches through the weekend, so not a drought buster by any means,” the Long Term Forecast explains. “North Georgia is likely to see the higher amounts whereas central Georgia will be unlikely to see much if any rainfall at this time unfortunately.”

The anticipated rainfall over the weekend, associated with a low-pressure system moving east, is not expected to provide meaningful improvement to soil moisture or reservoir levels. The forecast calls for a continued, watchful eye on the weather pattern into next week, with only low chances of more significant, drought-easing precipitation.

Key Takeaways for Residents:

• Today: Highs in low 70s. CRITICAL FIRE DANGER due to very low humidity (20s%). Avoid all outdoor burning.
• Wed-Fri: Dangerous heatwave. Highs in upper 70s to low 80s. High probability of breaking daily record highs.
• Rainfall: Isolated showers north GA Tuesday night. Better chance of rain region-wide Saturday, but amounts will be too light to improve drought conditions.

Officials advise residents to stay hydrated, check on vulnerable neighbors during the heat, and remain vigilant against any potential fire starts. All outdoor burning is strongly discouraged.

From the City of Summerville: Filter Plant Road will be closing again this morning at 9:00 a.m. for ongoing work at the water treatment plant.

🔹 No through access between Back Berryton Rd. and Hwy 48 once the closure begins.
🔹 Residents on Filter Plant Rd. will only be able to access Hwy 48 during the closure.

The City of Summerville adds, “We appreciate your patience!”.

Residents across Chattooga County and the broader Northwest Georgia region are being strongly advised to refrain from any outdoor burning this week as local officials sound the alarm on dangerously dry conditions and a significantly elevated wildfire risk.

Despite the pleasant, unseasonably warm temperatures gracing the area with highs reaching the mid-70s, the accompanying low humidity has created a tinderbox scenario. Vegetation, from fallen leaves and twigs to accumulated yard debris, is exceptionally dry and highly susceptible to ignition. Compounding the concern, forecasts offer little respite, with no significant rainfall predicted to alleviate these parched conditions throughout the coming week.

While the official summer burn ban has concluded, officials emphasize that this does not negate the inherent dangers presented by the current weather patterns. The combination of warm air, low humidity, and abundant dry organic material creates a recipe for disaster, where even small fires can quickly spread out of control.

To mitigate this heightened risk, authorities are urging the public to exercise extreme caution and adhere to the following safety recommendations:

• Postpone all outdoor burning until conditions improve significantly.
• Ensure all potential fire sources are kept under strict control, whether for recreational purposes or necessary landscape management.
• Regularly check fire danger updates provided by the Georgia Forestry Commission for the most current information and advisories.
• In the rare instances where burning is deemed absolutely essential, residents must ensure fires are kept small, constantly attended by a responsible adult, and fully extinguished before leaving the area.

The bottom line is clear: even though the weather may be inviting, the risk of wildfire is exceptionally high across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this week. Officials reiterate the strong advice to avoid burning altogether to protect lives, property, and the natural environment.

The City of Summerville has announced a Request for Proposal (RFP) inviting qualified vendors to submit bids for a major upgrade of its municipal sports field lighting systems. The project mandates a complete overhaul, replacing current traditional lighting infrastructure with advanced, energy-efficient LED technology.

This strategic investment aims to significantly enhance the quality and reliability of Summerville’s recreational facilities while delivering substantial long-term operational cost reductions.

City officials emphasized that the conversion is driven by three core objectives:

• Elevated Playing Experience: The new LED systems will provide superior, uniform illumination, significantly enhancing visibility for athletes and spectators across all fields, extending usability well into the evening hours.
• Energy Efficiency and Cost Reduction: LED lighting consumes dramatically less electricity than older systems, promising large-scale savings on utility bills and reducing the city’s overall carbon footprint.
• Safety and Maintenance: Modern LED systems are reliable, require minimal maintenance, and are designed to minimize light spill and glare, ensuring safer, high-quality environments for community use.

“. “By taking this step toward modernization, we are simultaneously ensuring our athletes have access to top-tier, safe facilities, and fulfilling our commitment to fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship.”

Call for Proposals

The City is seeking detailed proposals from experienced firms specializing in large-scale municipal lighting retrofits. Vendors must demonstrate proven expertise in supplying and installing reliable, high-performance LED systems suitable for active sports complexes.

The RFP process outlines strict technical specifications designed to meet national standards for sports lighting quality and performance.

Vendors interested in submitting a proposal must adhere to the following schedule and instructions:

Chattooga County residents needing some help preparing for the upcoming holiday season are invited to attend the 9th Annual Home for the Holidays FREE FOOD DISTRIBUTION AND RESOURCES EVENT, hosted by Chattooga Family Connection.

The large-scale drive-thru event is scheduled for this Thursday, November 20, 2025, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Community Resource Center of Chattooga (CRC), located at 50 Eleanor Ave. in Summerville.

The annual giveaway is designed to provide essential food items and resources to families across the county as they enter the Thanksgiving period. The organizers stress that the drive-thru format aims to ensure efficiency and safety for all participants.

Event coordinator Maisha Ludy confirmed that the distribution is open to all Chattooga County Residents.

“This Thursday, November 20, 2025, will be our Annual Home for the Holidays Food Distribution,” said Ludy. She released specific instructions for residents planning to attend, emphasizing the timeline for the busy day.

Parking for attendees will officially open at 12:00 noon, one hour before the distribution begins.

Ludy also noted a mandatory requirement for participation this year. “Each vehicle will be required to complete a survey upon arrival,” she stated, asking residents to be prepared to fill out the necessary paperwork before receiving their resources.

The success of the event relies heavily on community involvement. Ludy issued a call to volunteers helping with the preparation and distribution process.

“All volunteers should report to The Community Resource Center of Chattooga (CRC) by 10:00 AM,” she requested.

Chattooga Family Connection encourages all eligible residents seeking support to take advantage of the free distribution. The event will run for two hours, or until supplies are depleted.

Chattooga County received a thoughtful boost this season as local Scouts from Pack 38 and Troops 7B & 7G completed their annual “Rake and Run” event, an initiative deeply rooted in their commitment to community service.

The “Rake and Run” is a unique community outreach project where Scouts quietly visit the homes of elderly residents, veterans, and dedicated community workers. Armed with rakes and an eagerness to help, they meticulously clear yards of leaves and debris, leaving behind only neat and tidy landscapes, and a silent testament to their kindness. True to its name, once the work is done, the Scouts “run” to the next house, often without lingering for thanks, embodying selfless service.

“While our Scouts are well-known for their work ethic and dedication, it’s these little acts of anonymous kindness that truly define the ‘Rake and Run’ event,” said a local Scouting leader. “Each yard we touched was left impeccably neat, reflecting not just hard work, but a genuine desire to give back to those who have contributed so much to our community.”

The event has become a beloved tradition in Chattooga County, eagerly anticipated by many residents. It provides invaluable support to those who might struggle with seasonal yard work and offers a heartwarming experience for neighbors who enjoy watching the group of young volunteers grow in number and spirit each year.

Over the years, the “Rake and Run” has seen an increasing number of Scouts volunteering their time and energy, turning a simple idea into a widespread act of goodwill. It serves as a powerful reminder that even the simplest acts of kindness can resonate deeply and have a profound positive impact on a community.

Scouting is a year-round program designed to foster character and leadership development in youth from Kindergarten to age 18. Through hands-on activities and community engagement, the program builds confidence, respect, and personal achievement in its participants.

For more information about local Scouting opportunities or to sign up, please visit beascout.org.

Here are the latest health inspection scores from the Chattooga County Environmental Health Department for the first half of November, 2025: