Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a classic mid-summer weather pattern over the coming days, featuring scattered afternoon thunderstorms to start the weekend followed by a steady climb in temperatures heading into next week.
A strong thunderstorm Friday afternoon caused flooding in downtown Summerville and damaged Chattooga County’s emergency communications system after lightning struck the county’s communications tower on Taylor’s Ridge.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters told WZQZ News that the primary flooding occurred along Commerce Street in front of Bryant and Sons Lumber Company. Winters said the flooding was likely caused by a drainage tile beneath the state-owned railroad tracks becoming clogged with debris. He said the city has contacted the state and will work to have the tile cleared.
Meanwhile, Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen told WZQZ News that a lightning strike shortly after 5 p.m. caused major damage to the communications tower used by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, county fire departments and EMS. Allen said service was partially restored by 6 p.m. and was expected to be fully restored before nightfall. He said permanent repairs to the tower are expected to be costly but should be covered by the county’s insurance.
Press Release:
From Chattooga County Government, EMA/E-911
A lightning strike associated with a severe storm this (Friday) afternoon impacted the Chattooga County Public Safety Communications Building, affecting portions of the county’s communications infrastructure.
Emergency communications remain operational, and dispatch services continue to support public safety agencies throughout the county. Personnel are actively working to restore all systems to full functionality.
Currently, there are no unmet public safety needs, and emergency services continue to respond to calls for service.
The public is encouraged to use 911 for emergencies as normal. Additional updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and understanding as crews work to complete repairs.
Dancing With Our Stars – Chattooga Style 2026 is happening this evening at the Chattooga High School Auditorium.
The event will feature local participants taking the stage in a dance competition to benefit CRC Chattooga and its work to fight hunger, feed hope and support families across the community.
Audience members can cheer for their favorite teams, and every dollar donated will count as a vote. Organizers say the event is designed to bring the community together for a night of entertainment while also raising support for local families in need.
The VIP experience begins at 5:30 p.m., with the main show starting at 7 p.m.
Tickets and information on supporting a favorite dancer are available at www.feedchattooga.com.
Anyone coping with the loss of a loved one is invited to attend “My Grief Journey,” a free one-day seminar on Saturday, September 12, at Boynton Church of God in Ringgold.
The event will be held from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the church, located at 1956 Three Notch Road, in Ringgold, and lunch will be provided.
The six-hour seminar is designed for people who have experienced the loss of a loved one, as well as those who want to better understand how to help others through the grieving process. Topics will include common emotions associated with grief, such as anxiety, depression, anger, fear, difficulty sleeping and loss of concentration, while offering encouragement and practical guidance for healing.
The seminar will be facilitated by Jimmy Spurling and Neal Brown and is hosted by Boynton Church of God. There is no cost to attend.
The Teloga Volunteer Fire Department is reminding residents that 2026 membership dues are now due and encouraging community members to continue supporting the department’s mission of protecting the Teloga community.
Current members can conveniently pay their dues by placing their payment in the drop box located at the fire department or by stopping by the station on Monday nights after 6 p.m. to meet the firefighters and pay in person.
Residents who are not yet members are encouraged to join. The cost is $150 for the first year, with annual renewals of $50 each year after that.
Volunteer fire departments rely on community support to help provide emergency fire protection and other emergency services. Department officials say every membership helps keep the Teloga community safe.
Tickets are now on sale for the 2026 Summerville Santa Special excursions through the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum.
This year’s holiday train rides are scheduled for November 28 and 29, December 5 and 6, and December 11 and 12. Tickets are $24 for everyone age 2 and older.
Passengers will travel to Summerville for a festive holiday experience that includes the Mistletoe Market and a free children’s activity tent. Visitors will also have time to shop, eat and enjoy downtown Summerville.
The Summerville Santa Special has become a popular family tradition, and organizers encourage passengers to reserve their seats early because the rides often sell out.
Tickets are available at www.tvrail.com under Train Rides, Seasonal Special Events, and Summerville Santa Special.
The Rome-Floyd County Development Authority is continuing its search for a new president and chief executive officer following the departure of Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg.
While showers and thunderstorms will keep temperatures a little lower through the weekend, much hotter weather is expected to return to northwest Georgia next week.
Highs in Chattooga County are forecast to climb into the lower 90s on Sunday, then reach the middle 90s by Tuesday. Heat index values are expected to top 100 degrees each afternoon, making it feel even hotter.
The National Weather Service says the hottest conditions are expected Monday through Wednesday as high humidity combines with the summer heat. Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, limit strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day, and check on elderly neighbors, children and pets.
While a slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms remains in the forecast next week, widespread relief from the heat is not expected.
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, July 24, 2026:
A Flood Watch remains in effect through this evening for Chattooga County and much of north and northwest Georgia as rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms move across the region.
