Hot And Humid Weather Continues This Week
Hot and humid summer weather will continue across Chattooga County and the rest of northwest Georgia through much of the upcoming week, with afternoon temperatures climbing into the lower 90s and heat index values reaching around 100 to 101 degrees. Residents spending time outdoors should take frequent breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid prolonged activity during the hottest part of the afternoon.
Today will be mostly sunny with only a slight chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms developing after 2 p.m. Any storms that do form will be isolated but could bring brief heavy rain, lightning, and gusty winds before ending this evening.
Tuesday looks very similar, with mostly sunny skies, highs around 93 degrees, and another hot afternoon. Rain chances remain low through most of the day.
The weather pattern begins to change Wednesday as moisture increases across the region. While a few showers are possible early, the better chance for widespread showers and thunderstorms arrives during the afternoon and continues into Wednesday night. Rain chances climb to around 60 percent, making Wednesday the wettest day of the forecast period.
From Thursday through the weekend, expect a more typical summertime pattern. Each afternoon and evening will bring at least a chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms, while highs ease slightly into the upper 80s. No day appears to be a washout, but outdoor plans could be interrupted by passing storms, especially during the afternoon and evening hours.
Overall, northwest Georgia can expect another week of summer heat, high humidity, and increasing opportunities for scattered thunderstorms as the week progresses.
Arrest Report - Monday - July 20, 2026
Trion High School Reminds Students of Locker and Parking Purchase Day
Trion High School is reminding students that locker and parking permit purchases will take place on Friday, July 24, at the back entrance of Trion High School.
Students must purchase lockers and parking permits during their assigned class time:
- Seniors: 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.
- Juniors: 9:30 to 11 a.m.
- Sophomores: 11 a.m. to noon
- Freshmen: 1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
The cost is $25 for a locker and $30 for a parking permit.
School officials say students who have not completed and submitted their enrollment paperwork or tuition requirements will not be able to make purchases until those requirements have been met.
Because the enrollment deadline has passed and PowerSchool is temporarily offline for maintenance, parents needing to complete enrollment must fill out a paper enrollment form, which is available in the Trion High School office.
Students are also reminded to wait until their designated time slot before arriving to make purchases.
Local Travel Volleyball Program to Hold Evaluations July 25
Young volleyball players in Chattooga County will have an opportunity to compete at the next level as One County One Team Travel Volleyball prepares for its upcoming season.
The program will host open sign-ups and evaluations on Saturday, July 25, from 1 p.m. until 3 p.m. at the North Summerville Dewey Hopkins Gym.
The travel program is designed to expand competitive volleyball opportunities for local athletes and is inviting players ages 11 through 15 to participate. Organizers say the number of teams and age divisions will depend on turnout, making the evaluation an important step in forming teams for the season.
Players attending should bring knee pads and a drink. Evaluations will include movement drills, basic skills assessments and scrimmage-style play.
Team dues are $250, payable at the end of August. The fee covers two uniforms and helps provide equipment and other team needs throughout the season.
For additional information, families may contact Byrina Womack at byrinawomack5@gmail.com.
Family Crisis Center to Host Empowered to Protect Conference This September
The Family Crisis Center of Walker, Dade, Catoosa and Chattooga Counties will host its Empowered to Protect – Educate – Heal Conference 2026 on Tuesday, September 29, bringing nationally recognized speakers and victim advocates together for a full day of education and training.
The conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. at the Catoosa County Colonnade.
Featured speakers include actress and advocate Robin Givens, child safety advocate Elizabeth Smart, criminal justice reform advocate Kemba Smith-Pradia, and Capt. Adam Meyers. Jay Neal, executive director of the Georgia Criminal Justice Coordinating Council, will appear as a special guest.
Organizers say the conference is designed for first responders, law enforcement officers, educators, healthcare professionals, victim advocates, community leaders and anyone interested in strengthening the response to domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and victim services.
Individual tickets are $175. Corporate tables for eight are available for $1,250, half tables for four are $625, and resource booths are available for $30. Those interested in corporate tables or resource booths should contact the Family Crisis Center at 706-375-8400.
A limited number of VIP meet-and-greet opportunities with Robin Givens and Elizabeth Smart are also available for an additional fee through Eventbrite.
New Georgia Law Requires Registration of AED Locations With Chattooga County 911
Businesses, schools, churches, government agencies and other organizations in Chattooga County that own an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) are now required to register the device’s location with Chattooga County EMA/E-911 under a new state law that took effect July 1.
The requirement is part of the Mason Sells AED Coordination Act (Senate Bill 399), which establishes a statewide system to help emergency dispatchers quickly identify the nearest publicly accessible AED during a cardiac emergency.
Chattooga County Emergency Management Director Pamela Vaughn said the county is currently working with its computer-aided dispatch (CAD) and mapping vendor to incorporate registered AED locations into the 911 system. Until that work is complete, dispatchers are manually entering each registered device under the medical information tab for its address. An audible alert will notify communications officers whenever a 911 call is received from a location with a registered AED, helping ensure first responders know a device is available.
Vaughn emphasized that residents should not call 911 to register an AED. Instead, owners should use the registration forms available through Chattooga County EMA/E-911 or visit the office at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville for assistance with the registration process.
Under the new law, anyone who owns or maintains an AED must register its location with the local emergency communications center before placing the device into service. Owners are also required to notify 911 if the AED is moved, removed from service or relocated so records remain accurate.
The law also requires 911 communications officers to receive training in telephone-assisted CPR and guiding callers in the use of an AED during emergencies. It reinforces Georgia’s Good Samaritan protections for individuals who use an AED in good faith while responding to a medical emergency.
The legislation is named in memory of Mason Sells, a 20-year-old Mercer University student who died after suffering cardiac arrest during an intramural soccer match. Although an AED was reportedly nearby, bystanders and the 911 dispatcher were unable to quickly determine its location. State lawmakers unanimously approved Senate Bill 399, and Governor Brian Kemp signed it into law. The act became effective July 1, 2026.
Anyone with questions about registering an AED in Chattooga County should contact Chattooga County EMA/E-911.
AdventHealth Redmond to Host Community Blood Drive Thursday
AdventHealth Redmond will host a community blood drive on Thursday, July 23, giving area residents an opportunity to help patients in need.
The blood drive will be held from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. at AdventHealth Redmond in Rome.
Hospital representatives say donated blood can provide hope and support for patients and families facing medical emergencies, surgeries and other serious health needs. Every eligible donor has the potential to make a meaningful difference for someone receiving care.
Walk-ins will be welcome throughout the event, although donors may also reserve an appointment in advance through Blood Assurance’s online scheduling system.
Those planning to donate should bring a valid photo identification and are encouraged to eat a healthy meal and drink plenty of water before arriving.
AdventHealth Redmond is encouraging community members who are able to donate to take part in the drive and help maintain the regional blood supply.
Appointments may be scheduled through the Blood Assurance website.
Former Bartow County Sheriff's Deputy Charged Following Child Abuse Investigation
A former Bartow County Sheriff’s deputy has been arrested following a Georgia Bureau of Investigation inquiry into allegations of child abuse.
The GBI announced that Andrew Sean Williams, 31, of Taylorsville, has been charged with one count of misdemeanor battery.
According to the GBI, the Bartow County Sheriff’s Office requested the agency investigate the case on July 10 after receiving allegations of physical abuse involving a child.
Investigators say the child was found walking along a street by law enforcement officers and was taken to the local Division of Family and Children Services office. Authorities later identified the child and the child’s parents.
During the investigation, agents determined there was evidence indicating the child had been struck multiple times by Williams, resulting in minor injuries.
Williams was arrested on July 15 and booked into the Bartow County Jail.
The GBI says the investigation remains active and ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the GBI Tip Line at 1-800-597-TIPS (8477), submit information online through the GBI website, or use the See Something, Send Something mobile app.
Once the investigation is complete, the case will be turned over to the Cherokee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office for prosecution.
GNTC Accepting Applications for Fall Semester Through August 4
Prospective students interested in beginning or continuing their education at Georgia Northwestern Technical College still have time to apply for the upcoming fall semester, but the admissions deadline is approaching.
GNTC has announced that applications for fall admission must be submitted by Tuesday, August 4. The college is encouraging students not to wait until the deadline to begin the admissions process.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers more than 200 degree, diploma and technical certificate programs designed to prepare students for employment or advancement in their chosen careers. Areas of study include aviation and industrial technologies, business and cybersecurity, healthcare and nursing, and public service fields.
Students receive hands-on instruction intended to build the practical skills employers are seeking. GNTC reports a 100 percent placement rate and offers career services to help students prepare for the workforce.
The college operates six campuses across Northwest Georgia in Catoosa, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Walker and Whitfield-Murray counties, giving students several options for attending classes closer to home.
Financial aid options may be available for eligible students. Applicants must complete the online application, pay a $25 nonrefundable application fee and submit a high school or GED transcript. Newly accepted students must also register for orientation.
Students may apply online through GNTC’s admissions page. Additional assistance is available by calling the college’s admissions office at 1-866-983-4682
Second Public Hearing Scheduled About Tiny Homes And Cargo Homes In Chattooga County
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen is considering new regulations for cargo trailers that have been converted into residences, citing concerns about public safety, infrastructure and emergency response access.
During a recent public meeting, Allen said the county has seen an increase in enclosed cargo trailers being converted into full-time homes without clear standards for structural safety, electrical and plumbing systems, septic and water connections or access for fire and EMS vehicles.
Allen emphasized that the proposal is not intended to discourage affordable housing or target individual tiny homes or manufactured homes. Instead, he said the county’s goal is to establish clear standards that ensure new housing developments are safe, properly supported by infrastructure and do not create long-term burdens for taxpayers.
The proposed temporary moratorium would apply to new tiny home communities, certain mobile home parks, cargo trailer-style residences and some mixed-use and rehabilitation center projects while updated development standards are considered.
Several residents spoke during the meeting about the growing need for affordable housing, noting that many families have been priced out of the traditional housing market. Allen acknowledged those concerns but said the county must also ensure that roads, water systems and emergency services are able to support future development.
A second public hearing on the proposed moratorium and related ordinance changes is scheduled for Wednesday, July 29, at 6 p.m.
Arrest Report - Sunday - July 19, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, July 19, 2026:
Scattered Storms, Damaging Winds and Dangerous Heat Expected Across Northwest Georgia This Week
Residents of Chattooga County and northwest Georgia should prepare for another hot and humid week with daily chances for afternoon and evening thunderstorms, some of which could become strong or severe.
Today will be mostly sunny with a high near 92 degrees. Heat index values will climb to around 101 before scattered showers and thunderstorms develop after 1 p.m. Storms may produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning and locally heavy rainfall. While widespread flooding is not expected, isolated areas could experience brief flash flooding where the heaviest rain falls.
The National Weather Service has placed portions of north Georgia under a Slight Risk for severe thunderstorms today, with damaging straight-line winds posing the primary threat. Storms are expected to diminish later this evening, leaving partly cloudy skies overnight with a low around 73.
Monday will bring another hot day with a high near 92 and heat index values approaching 102. Showers and thunderstorms are likely during the afternoon before clearing Monday night.
The unsettled pattern continues through Wednesday with daily afternoon storm chances and highs remaining in the lower 90s. Heat index values will continue reaching the triple digits through at least Wednesday.
A weak cold front is expected to move through late Wednesday into Thursday, bringing slightly lower humidity and highs closer to 89 degrees for the end of the week. While conditions will become somewhat more comfortable, isolated afternoon thunderstorms will remain possible through next weekend.
Residents are encouraged to stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest part of the day, and seek shelter immediately if thunderstorms approach. Lightning can strike several miles away from a storm, and strong wind gusts may develop with little warning.
Chattooga County Schools Highlights Career and Technical Education Opportunities
Students in the Chattooga County School System will have access to a wide range of Career, Technical and Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs during the 2026-2027 school year, preparing them for college, technical education and careers in high-demand fields.
The CTAE program is offered at Chattooga High School, Summerville Middle School, Lyerly Middle School and Menlo Middle School. School officials say the courses are available to all students regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or limited English proficiency.
Available pathways include agriculture, allied health, certified nursing assistant, carpentry, cloud computing, criminal investigations, electrical, automotive technology, masonry, plumbing, sheet metal, welding, sports nutrition, patient care, plant science, work-based learning and youth apprenticeship programs.
For more information about Chattooga County’s CTAE programs, contact Angie Culbert, CTAE Director and Assistant Principal, at aculbert@chattooga.k12.ga.us.
Highland Avenue to Close for Road Work Beginning Monday
The City of Summerville is advising motorists of a temporary road closure on Highland Avenue beginning Monday, July 20.
Highland Avenue will be closed from Third Street to Sixth Avenue each day from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. through Friday, July 24, while scheduled road work is completed.
A designated detour route will be clearly marked to guide traffic around the work zone.
Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, allow additional travel time and use caution while traveling through nearby detour areas.
The city thanked residents and motorists for their patience and cooperation while the infrastructure improvements are underway.
New Memorial Planned to Honor Cherokee Heritage in Northwest Georgia
A permanent tribute recognizing Northwest Georgia’s Cherokee history could soon be placed near Ridge Ferry Park in Rome.
The Rotary Club of Rome is raising money for a memorial planned near Chieftains Museum. Organizers say the site would serve as a visible reminder of the Cherokee people who lived throughout the region before their forced removal from Georgia.
Five possible designs are under consideration, with a final selection expected before the end of the month. Some versions of the project are estimated to cost more than $120,000.
The Rotary Club has contributed $19,050, while supporters have pledged an additional $5,600. Organizers hope to secure the needed funding by Labor Day so the project can move forward.
The fundraising campaign is called “But One Summer More,” a phrase taken from an 1837 letter written by Gen. John E. Wool warning the Cherokee that their remaining time in Georgia was limited.
Rome and the surrounding area have strong ties to Cherokee history. Prominent Cherokee leaders Major Ridge and John Ross lived in the region, while New Echota, then the capital of the Cherokee Nation, was located in Northwest Georgia.
The proposed memorial also comes as the 200th anniversary of the Cherokee Constitution approaches in 2027.
Contributions may be made through the Community Foundation for Greater Rome at cffgr.org. Donors should select the Rotary “But One Summer More” fund. Donations are tax deductible.
Individuals or companies contributing at least $2,500 may have their names included on a recognition plaque at the memorial site.
Cherokee County Alabama Lieutenant Appointed Secretary of National School Resource Officer Association
Cherokee County, Alabama Sheriff’s Office Lieutenant Jordan Kelley has been appointed secretary of the National Association of School Resource Officers, giving the local agency representation in a national school-safety leadership role.
The Sheriff’s Office announced the appointment and praised Kelley’s experience, leadership and commitment to protecting students.
“We are proud to see Lt. Kelley represent our office and serve in this important national leadership role,” the Sheriff’s Office stated. “Congratulations on this well-deserved appointment.”
Founded in 1991 and based in Hoover, Alabama, the National Association of School Resource Officers is a nonprofit organization that provides specialized training, professional guidance and other resources for law enforcement officers assigned to schools.
NASRO promotes a three-part model of school-based policing in which a school resource officer serves as a law enforcement officer, educator and mentor. Its training programs also address emergency preparedness, threat assessment, de-escalation, behavioral health and building positive relationships between officers and students.
The organization works with school resource officers and law enforcement agencies across the country to ensure officers receive training designed specifically for the school environment.
Kelley’s appointment recognizes his work in school safety while giving the Cherokee County, Alabama Sheriff’s Office a voice within one of the nation’s leading school-safety organizations.
Home Gardeners Report Poor Tomato Harvests Across Northwest Georgia
Many home gardeners across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are finding that this year’s tomato crop hasn’t lived up to expectations. While tomato plants may appear healthy, many are producing fewer tomatoes than normal, dropping blossoms before fruit develops, or producing fruit that cracks, rots, or ripens unevenly.
Several factors may be contributing to the disappointing harvest. The region has experienced extended periods of hot, humid weather, frequent afternoon thunderstorms, and cloudy conditions. Daytime temperatures consistently above 90 degrees and nighttime temperatures above 70 degrees can interfere with pollination, causing blossoms to drop before tomatoes form. Heavy rainfall followed by hot, dry periods can also lead to cracking and blossom-end rot, while excessive humidity encourages fungal diseases such as early blight and Septoria leaf spot.
In addition, inconsistent watering, poor air circulation, nutrient imbalances, and insect pests can all reduce production. Garden experts recommend watering deeply and consistently, applying mulch to help regulate soil moisture, pruning lower leaves to improve airflow, and monitoring plants regularly for signs of disease or insect damage.
Gardeners with questions about growing tomatoes or other vegetables are encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Extension Office. Extension agents can help identify plant diseases, insect problems, soil fertility issues, and provide research-based recommendations tailored to growing conditions in Northwest Georgia.
The Chattooga County Extension Office is located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville and can be reached at 706-857-0744 for information about home gardening, soil testing, and vegetable production.
Chattooga County Historical Society Hosts Summer Meeting Today
The Chattooga County Historical Society is inviting the public to its Summer Meeting today, featuring a firsthand account from a Chattooga County native who took part in one of the most significant military operations in American history.
The meeting begins at 2 p.m. today at the Historic Summerville Depot in downtown Summerville. Admission is free, and everyone is invited to attend.
Featured speaker Jim Lenderman will share his experiences as a U.S. Marine helicopter pilot during the 1980 Iranian hostage rescue attempt, known as Operation Eagle Claw. Lenderman will also discuss his later service flying President Ronald Reagan aboard Marine One, providing a unique perspective on both military and presidential aviation.
The Historical Society says the presentation offers a rare opportunity to hear an inspiring story from one of Chattooga County’s own while learning more about an important chapter in American history. The event is free and open to the public.
Trion GICH Committee to Meet Monday
The Town of Trion’s Georgia Initiative for Community Housing (GICH) Committee will hold a public meeting on Monday, July 20, at 5 p.m. in the Town Hall Conference Room.
The GICH Committee works with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and the University of Georgia to develop long-term strategies for addressing local housing needs and strengthening the community.
In Trion, the committee focuses on issues such as rehabilitating older homes, encouraging neighborhood revitalization, reducing blight, improving code enforcement and planning for future housing opportunities that support economic growth and community stability.
Mayor Mickey D. McGraw said anyone with questions or comments is encouraged to contact him or the Town Hall office for additional information.
The meeting is open to the public.
Twisted Ankle Trail Race Celebrates 20 Years at James H. "Sloppy" Floyd State Park
Trail runners from across the Southeast are invited to lace up for the 20th annual Twisted Ankle Trail Race at James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, as the popular event celebrates two decades of racing and giving back to the park.
To mark the milestone, organizers are adding a special 20-mile race for 2026 only, giving participants the chance to make two climbs to Becky’s Bluff. The race lineup also includes a beginner-friendly 5K, a challenging 10-mile, and a half marathon, offering options for runners of all experience levels.
The scenic courses feature a mix of wide trails, single-track sections, Marble Mine, and the iconic climb to Becky’s Bluff, where runners will enjoy a stretch along the Pinhoti Trail before descending. Organizers say the courses include plenty of rocks and roots, providing the technical challenge trail runners have come to expect.
Since its beginning, the Twisted Ankle Trail Race has donated all proceeds to James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, helping support improvements and preservation efforts.
Additional race information, course maps and registration details are available at twistedanklerace.com.