
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader released a statement to local media explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Billy Joe Dooley following a crash Friday evening that resulted in DUI charges.

Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader released a statement to local media explaining the circumstances surrounding the arrest of Billy Joe Dooley following a crash Friday evening that resulted in DUI charges.

The potential is increasing for another significant winter storm to impact parts of the eastern United States this coming weekend. Forecasters emphasize it is still too early to pin down exact details, but confidence is growing that a storm system could develop and move through while very cold air remains in place.
Meteorologists say a disturbance is expected to move out of Canada later this week, helping a stronger low-pressure system form across the East. If that system tracks in the right corridor, it could bring widespread precipitation that may fall as rain, snow, or a mix, depending on where the coldest air sets up. The biggest uncertainties right now include the storm’s timing, track, and strength, which will determine what areas see the greatest impacts.
For Northwest Georgia and the surrounding region, the message for now is preparedness without panic. Residents should keep checking updated forecasts through the week, especially as we get closer to Friday and Saturday when forecast confidence typically improves. Now is also a good time to review weekend travel plans, make sure you have supplies in case of slick roads or power issues, and plan ahead for pets, pipes, and outdoor needs if colder, wetter conditions move in.

Chattooga County Emergency Management says there are currently no reported road hazards across the county, but residents are urged to stay cautious as wet surfaces may have iced over in spots, especially on porches, driveways, and less-traveled roads.
EMA says Public Works Director Tim Brunson has been checking roads throughout Chattooga County and reports that while main routes appear to be in good shape, some less-traveled roads do have icy spots. If you must travel, officials ask drivers to take it slow, use caution, and allow extra time.
The cold is expected to hang on today, with temperatures possibly not rising above freezing, and wind chills making it feel even colder. Residents who need to be outdoors are encouraged to dress appropriately in layers and limit time outside, as hypothermia can develop quickly in these conditions.
Chattooga County EMA reports that as of 6:00 a.m., the temperature in the county was 22 degrees, with a wind chill of 11 degrees.

As dangerous cold grips Northwest Georgia, Chattooga County Animal Control is urging residents to bring pets inside and take extra precautions to keep animals safe. Officials warn that pets cannot survive prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures, especially overnight when wind chills can drop even lower.
Chattooga County Animal Control Director Charlie Long says families in need can pick up one free bale of straw to help provide warmer bedding and insulation for outdoor shelters. Straw is available at Pine Ridge Outdoors, 4999 GA-114, Lyerly, GA 30730, or Southern Living Farm and Garden, 15734 US-27, Trion, GA 30753. Long says the straw is one per family and is being provided by Animal Advocates of Chattooga County, adding thanks for their continued support of local animals.
Residents are reminded that garages, sheds, and porches may still be too cold, and that animals left outside can suffer quickly in these conditions. If pets must be outdoors for brief periods, make sure they have a dry, wind-blocked shelter with warm bedding, along with food and unfrozen water.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, January 26, 2026:

Businesses / Government Offices /Events:
Mount Vernon Mills – Denim and Finish Plant will start up at 10 AM
United Community Bank – Delayed opening until 11 AM
Dirt Town Deli – Closed Today
Menlo Restaurant – Delayed opening until 8 AM
No Silver Sneakers Today
CRC Chattooga will be closed today
Chattooga County Courthouse
Chattooga County Governmental Offices (Essential employees report)
Walker County Courthouse
Walker County Governmental Offices
City of Summerville – Delayed Opening until 10 AM (Today & Tomorrow)
Town of Trion Offices – Closed Today
Trion Recreation Department – 4 Hour Delay
Schools:
Trion City Schools – 2 Hour Delay. Students at 10 AM / Teachers at 9 AM
Walker County Schools – Closed Today
Floyd County Schools – Closed Today
Rome City Schools – Closed Today
Fort Payne City Schools – Closed Today
DeKalb County, Alabama Schools – Closed Today
Cherokee County, Alabama Schools – Closed Today / 2-Hour Delay on Tuesday
Colleges:
GNTC – All Campuses – Closed Today
Berry College – Closed Today

A blast of winter air is settling over Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia Monday, and the National Weather Service in Peachtree City is warning that some roads could turn slick in spots during the morning hours.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, January 25, 2026:

Much of Georgia is starting this Sunday morning, January 25, 2026, with freezing rain and sleet, but for folks here in Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia, the main issue early today has been heavy rain. Temperatures around daybreak were near to slightly above freezing, helping keep most roads wet instead of icy to start the morning. Even so, the steady rainfall can still create hazardous travel, especially with reduced visibility, standing water in low spots, and slick conditions where oil and debris collect on the roadway.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, January 24, 2026: