Overnight Storm Triggers Major Flash Flooding Across Gilmer County

GILMER COUNTY, Ga. — Torrential rainfall overnight transformed what began as a severe thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes into one of the most significant flash flooding events Gilmer County has experienced in recent years.

A Flash Flood Warning was issued at approximately 10:25 p.m. Tuesday after the storm stalled over the county, dumping nearly four inches of rain in a short period of time. According to Gilmer County Emergency Management, a rain gauge in downtown Ellijay recorded 3.8 inches of rainfall in just one hour, while the Gilmer County Emergency Operations Center measured an official storm total of 3.94 inches.

The heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding, road washouts, power outages and damage to infrastructure across the county.

Among the most severe impacts, Gates Chapel Road at Zion Hill Road was completely washed out after sustaining catastrophic damage.

State Highway 52 West also remains closed due to a water main break caused by flooding along Cox Creek. The Georgia Department of Transportation currently estimates repairs could take approximately three to four days, though officials noted the timeline may change as work progresses.

A Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for portions of Gilmer County.

Power outages affected approximately 3,800 customers at the height of the storm.

Floodwaters also entered multiple buildings, including a local nursing home, forcing the relocation of 60 residents to a safe shelter.

Significant flooding was reported along Cox Creek, particularly in the downtown Ellijay area, where several low-lying roads and neighborhoods were impacted.

Throughout the night, deputies, dispatchers, firefighters, EMS personnel, public works crews, utility workers and emergency management staff responded to flooded roadways, stranded motorists, damaged infrastructure and numerous emergency calls.

Damage assessment teams are now surveying affected areas across the county. Officials are asking residents whose homes, businesses or property sustained significant storm damage to report it by emailing emagilmer@gmail.com. Residents are encouraged to include their address, photos if available, and a brief description of the damage to assist Emergency Management with countywide assessments.

Officials continue urging the public to avoid closed roads and barricades, never drive through flooded roadways, use caution around damaged roads and downed power lines, and monitor official updates regarding road closures and the ongoing Boil Water Advisory.

County officials said their thoughts are with everyone impacted by the storm and expressed appreciation for the patience and cooperation shown by residents during the emergency response.

Emergency Management also thanked first responders, utility crews, road department employees, emergency management staff and volunteers who worked through the night to protect the community and assist those affected.

Additional updates are expected as damage assessments continue.

Photo credit: Gilmer County Emergency Management Agency, which provided the storm updates, damage information and photographs as response and assessment efforts continue across Gilmer County.