Flash Report #1 - Polk County Flooding

Thursday, November 05, 2026 | 12:48pm

Highlights

  • The State Emergency Operations Center in Nashville remains activated at a Level 4 – Elevated to support statewide coordination in response to the Polk County flooding.
  • TEMA and local emergency response agencies continue working to support communities impacted by the flooding.
  • There have been 68 rescues to date.
  • Polk County has declared a State of Emergency.
  • Emergency Service Coordinators (ESCs) from TDOT, TDEC, TDCI, TDH, THP, TN Department of Human Services, and more are monitoring the situation and standing by to provide assistance to local jurisdictions. 

Current Situation

Overnight, 8-10” of rain fell in areas of the watershed that impacts Polk County causing flash flooding to occur predominately in the City of Copperhill. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the river crested at 18.05 feet, which is a record high. As of 11:00 a.m. CT, the Ocoee River crested and is now below Action stage. 

As of this flash report there have been 68 rescues coordinated by the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) completed by Tennessee Highway Patrol and Tennessee National Guard. 

The Tennessee Emergency Management Authority is coordinating with Polk County officials, local emergency responders and community partners to support residents affected by flooding in the Copper Basin area.

Life safety remains the top priority. Anyone in immediate danger or in need of emergency assistance should call 9-1-1. Residents should follow instructions from local emergency officials and be prepared to evacuate if directed.

We do not expect rain for the remainder of the week in this area. High temperatures will reach the lower 70s with westerly winds at 5-10 mph. Cloudy skies are forecasted through midday, clearing into the evening hours. Overnight lows will drop into the upper 40s.

Evacuation Center

The American Red Cross is supporting an evacuation center at Copper Basin Fire and Rescue for residents who have been displaced or need a safe place to go.

Residents seeking shelter or other assistance should monitor updates through TEMA’s interactive map of centers operating throughout the state. 

Water Conservation Notice

Copperhill Utilities has issued a mandatory water conservation notice. TEMA is working with the county to deliver water for residents.

Residents should follow all instructions issued by Copperhill Utilities and conserve water until the notice has been lifted.

Point of Distribution

A Point of Distribution site has been established to provide essential supplies to affected residents.

Location: Piggly Wiggly, 125 Five Points Drive, Copperhill, TN 37317

Community Donations

The Polk County Chamber of Commerce and the United Way of the Ocoee Region have both established donation funds to support residents impacted by the flooding. The Polk County Chamber of Commerce has specifically identified baby supplies and toiletry items as an identified need.

Information about how to contribute is available through the organizations’ social media channels. If you are an affected resident, please reach out to these organizations for assistance.

Tennessee Department of Transportation 

TDOT maintenance crews are in the process of removing mud on State Route 68. Many other routes throughout the area remain impacted.

Drivers should not attempt to drive through flooded roadways. Floodwater can conceal dangerous conditions, damage vehicles or sweep vehicles and people off the road. Avoid unnecessary travel, follow road closures and turn around if you encounter water covering the roadway.

If you have to be on the road, visit TDOT’s SmartWay website before driving.

Tennessee Highway Patrol

Tennessee Highway Patrol continues to provide assistance with law enforcement responsibilities.

Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation

Ocoee River State Park has been impacted by flooding and is currently closed. Residents and visitors should refrain from visiting the area.

Protective Actions/Key Messages

  • If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.
  • Do not drive through flooded roadways. Turn around, don’t drown.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel and follow all road closures and instructions from local officials.
  • Follow the mandatory water conservation notice issued by Copperhill Utilities.
  • Residents who need shelter should go to the evacuation center supported by the American Red Cross at Copper Basin Fire and Rescue.
  • Monitor official updates from TEMA, Polk County Emergency Management, local officials and utility providers.
  • Check on neighbors who may need additional assistance, including older adults and people with medical needs.