Atrium Health Floyd has lifted the temporary masking and visitor restrictions that had been in place since December, citing a steady decline in respiratory illness cases among patients and staff.
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia can expect average to slightly above-average temperatures to continue through the weekend, along with several opportunities for rainfall and a few thunderstorms heading into Thursday and Friday.
The Rome Police Department is investigating a deadly incident that happened Tuesday, February 24, 2026, after a person was struck by a train behind the Rome Kroger.
According to Floyd County Coroner Gene Proctor, the deceased is a female, and her body is being sent to the GBI Crime Lab.
Officials say the investigation is ongoing, and no additional details are being released at this time.
Authorities are reminding the public to use extreme caution around railroad tracks. Trains can be quieter than expected, move faster than they appear, and require a long distance to stop.
Charges have been dismissed in connection with a 2023 fatal crash that claimed the life of a LaFayette motorcyclist, according to documents filed in Floyd County Superior Court.
Georgia drivers are seeing some welcome relief at the pump this week, with the statewide average falling to $2.69 per gallon, three cents lower than last week, the same as a month ago, and 30 cents below this time last year. At that price, filling a standard 15-gallon tank costs about $40.35.
Drought conditions continue to grip Georgia, with 87.4% of the state now classified under at least D2 (Severe Drought) conditions — the highest statewide coverage seen since October 2011. While weekend rainfall brought measurable totals to parts of the state, it is not expected to significantly improve overall drought conditions.
Keep the umbrella handy across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia today as a weather system brings widespread rain showers with occasional thunderstorms. The steadiest rain is expected through the daytime hours, and while the more significant severe weather threat is aimed farther south in Georgia, brief heavier downpours and isolated lightning are still possible locally at times.














