Arrest Report - Tuesday - May 26, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, May 26, 2026:
Heavy Rain, Flooding Threat And Strong Storms Continue Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several more days of wet and stormy weather as an active weather pattern continues to bring repeated rounds of showers and thunderstorms across the region.
The National Weather Service says widespread rain and storms are expected to continue through the remainder of the week and likely into the weekend. Forecasters warn that saturated ground conditions combined with additional heavy rainfall could lead to localized flash flooding concerns across Northwest Georgia, especially in flood-prone and low-lying areas.
A Flood Watch remains in effect through late Tuesday evening and has now been expanded to cover most of North and West Georgia, including Chattooga County and surrounding areas. The watch comes after several consecutive days of heavy rain that have already dropped more than five inches of rainfall in some communities across the region.
Meteorologists say the atmosphere remains loaded with deep Gulf moisture streaming northward into Georgia. That moisture, combined with daytime heating and unstable air, will continue fueling numerous showers and thunderstorms each afternoon and evening.
Forecasters are especially concerned about storms repeatedly moving over the same locations, a setup known as “training,” which can quickly produce excessive rainfall totals. Some isolated locations could receive an additional two to three inches of rain in a short amount of time, increasing the risk for flash flooding on creeks, roads, and small streams.
While widespread severe weather is not currently expected, a few storms could become strong to severe during the afternoon and evening hours. The primary threat with stronger storms will be localized damaging wind gusts capable of downing small tree limbs, producing isolated power outages, and causing hazardous travel conditions.
The wet weather pattern is expected to continue Wednesday with another round of widespread afternoon and evening thunderstorms. Rain chances may briefly decrease slightly on Thursday as a weak ridge of high pressure attempts to build into the Southeast, but forecasters say scattered showers and storms are still likely because of the extremely moist air mass remaining in place.
Storm coverage is then expected to increase once again Friday and Saturday as another weather system approaches from the lower Mississippi Valley and a frontal boundary stalls across the region. That setup is expected to bring another surge of widespread showers and thunderstorms along with the potential for additional heavy rainfall.
Because soils are already saturated from recent rains, forecasters say additional Flood Watches may become necessary later this week and into the weekend if heavy rain continues.
Temperatures across Northwest Georgia will remain seasonably warm despite the unsettled weather, with daytime highs generally reaching the upper 70s to lower 80s and overnight lows staying in the 60s.
Forecasters say confidence in the forecast becomes lower by Sunday and early next week, but current indications suggest the wet pattern could continue into Monday before drier conditions potentially arrive sometime during the middle of next week.
Motorists are urged to use caution during periods of heavy rainfall and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Drought May Impact Chattooga County Hay Quality And Yields
Chattooga County Extension officials say hay is finally being cut across much of the county, but recent drought conditions could have a noticeable impact on both yield and quality this season.
According to Chattooga County Extension, the dry weather may lead to lower hay yields, reduced nutritional value, and more weeds in local hay fields. Officials say that makes forage testing especially important for farmers and livestock owners who depend on hay for feed.
Extension officials say producers should not assume the quality of their forage without proper testing. Hay testing can help determine key values such as protein percentage, total digestible nutrients, and relative forage quality.
Those numbers can help livestock owners better understand whether their hay will meet nutritional needs or whether additional feed supplements may be necessary.
Farmers are encouraged to test hay as it is harvested and review the results carefully before relying on it through the season.
More information is available through the Chattooga County Extension Office.
Chattooga County Summer Feeding Program Starts Next Week
Chattooga County School Nutrition officials have announced the return of the Summer Feeding Program, providing free meals for children during the summer break.
The program will operate on Fridays beginning June 5th and continuing through July 10th. There will be no meal service during the week of June 29th through July 5th due to the Independence Day holiday.
The program is open to all children ages 18 and under. Families will receive seven days of breakfast meals and seven days of lunch meals for each child in the household at each pickup. Children do not have to be present to receive meals.
Pickup dates are Friday, June 5th, June 12th, June 19th, June 26th, and July 10th.
Meals will be distributed from 1:30 until 2:30 PM at Chattooga High School, Menlo Elementary School, Fairway Recreation Center, and Leroy Massey Elementary School.
Questions may be directed to School Nutrition Director Brandie Wooten at 706-859-3054.
Georgia Gas Prices Remain High As Memorial Day Travelers Head Home
As Memorial Day weekend travel comes to a close, AAA says thousands of Georgia drivers are expected to crowd highways heading home, while gas prices continue putting pressure on family travel budgets.
The statewide average price for regular gasoline currently sits at $3.99 per gallon. AAA says that’s about one cent lower than last week, but still 41 cents higher than last month and more than a dollar above this time last year.
A standard 15-gallon fill-up now costs drivers nearly $60.
AAA is encouraging motorists to plan ahead, avoid peak traffic times when possible, and compare fuel prices before stopping along their routes.
Across Northwest Georgia and Northeast Alabama, local gas prices vary by county. Chattooga County currently averages $3.83 per gallon, while Walker County is averaging $3.91. Floyd County drivers are paying around $3.89, and Gordon County is averaging $3.95 per gallon.
Across the state line, DeKalb County, Alabama currently has some of the highest local prices in the region at $4.09 per gallon, while Cherokee County, Alabama averages around $3.95.
Statewide, the least expensive metro area in Georgia is currently the Catoosa-Dade-Walker market at $3.83 per gallon, while Macon has the state’s highest average at $4.07.
AAA says prices are expected to remain elevated as the busy summer travel season gets underway.
Community Connect Day Planned for Downtown Summerville This Saturday
The City of Summerville and the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce are inviting the public to attend Community Connect Day this Saturday from noon until 3 PM at the Summerville Train Depot.
The family-friendly event will feature local organizations, churches, clubs, agencies, and volunteer groups from across the community. Organizers say the goal is to help residents learn more about available services, volunteer opportunities, and ways to become involved in the community.
The event also coincides with the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad steam engine passenger train, bringing visitors and tourists into downtown Summerville.
Food vendors and informational booths will line East Washington Street throughout the afternoon. Community leaders say the event is designed to connect people with resources while showcasing everything Chattooga County has to offer.
Groups interested in participating or setting up booths are encouraged to contact the Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce or the City of Summerville for more information.
Drought Raises Concerns For Georgia Apple Farmers Ahead Of Fall Harvest
Apple farmers in North Georgia are watching the weather closely as a months-long drought raises concerns about the upcoming fall harvest.
In Gilmer County, home to Ellijay — known as the Apple Capital of Georgia — orchard owners say dry conditions are already putting stress on apple trees. Curled leaves, reduced moisture, and weakened tree health could all affect the size and quality of this year’s crop.
Agriculture experts say drought-stressed trees are more vulnerable to disease, fungus, and bacteria. Without enough rainfall, apple trees may produce lower yields and smaller fruit, and in more severe cases, some apples could fall from the trees before harvest.
Farmers say North Georgia has received more rain than some other parts of the state, but several areas remain in severe drought. Growers are hoping for more rain before the fall apple season begins.
Apple picking season in North Georgia traditionally begins around Labor Day weekend and continues through October.
Mohawk Industries Shareholders Approve New 2026 Incentive Plan
Mohawk Industries shareholders have approved a new 2026 Incentive Plan following the company’s annual stockholder meeting held on May 21st.
According to the company’s filing, the plan authorizes up to 3.5 million shares of common stock for equity and cash-based awards. Those awards may be made available to employees, officers, directors, and consultants.
The incentive plan became effective the same day it was approved and is scheduled to run through May 21, 2036, unless ended earlier.
Mohawk Industries remains one of the major manufacturing names connected to Northwest Georgia’s floor covering industry.
Manufacturing Continues To Drive Chattooga County Economy
Manufacturing remains the leading employment sector in Chattooga County, continuing its long-standing role as the backbone of the local economy.
Recent workforce data from 2024 through 2026 shows approximately 2,846 Chattooga County residents are employed in manufacturing jobs, making it the county’s largest employment sector by a wide margin.
Historically known for textile and floor covering production, the county’s manufacturing base has expanded in recent years to include automotive parts and building materials industries.
Healthcare and social assistance ranks as the county’s second-largest employment sector with more than 1,300 workers, followed by retail trade with over 1,100 employees.
Industry-specific job data also shows wholesale operations remain a major source of employment in the county with more than 2,500 local jobs, while public administration and education continue to provide hundreds of additional positions.
Among the county’s major employers are Mount Vernon Mills, Mohawk Industries, and the Georgia Department of Corrections.
Economic officials say agriculture also continues to play an important role in Chattooga County through poultry, cattle, and hay production, even though it employs fewer workers overall than manufacturing.
As a designated Tier 1 county in Georgia, Chattooga County also qualifies for the state’s highest level of job tax credits for companies creating at least five new jobs.
LaFayette Honeybee Festival Returns May 30 With Music, Food, and Family Fun
The annual LaFayette Honeybee Festival is set for Saturday, May 30, 2026, in downtown LaFayette, Georgia, bringing a full day of entertainment, educational activities, food, and family fun to Northwest Georgia.
The free, rain-or-shine festival celebrates the importance of honeybees and pollinators while showcasing local music, vendors, contests, and community activities. Festival events will run from 9 AM until 11 PM, with special “Honeybee Eve” activities planned for Friday night.
One of the biggest attractions will be live music performances at the Pigeon Mountain Trading Company Main Stage beginning at 5 PM. Country music group The Band Perry will headline the festival at 9:30 PM, with performances also scheduled by Channing Wilson, Shane Profitt, and Robby Hopkins throughout the evening.
Families can enjoy the Free Kids Zone at Joe Stock Park from 9 AM until 5 PM featuring bounce houses, pony rides, a petting zoo, and jugglers.
The festival will also include a classic car show hosted by American Legion Post 339, hands-on pollinator demonstrations inside the Honeybee Education Pavilion, and several competitions including a barbecue contest, baking contest, honey show, and the Honeybee Pageant.
Festival organizers say the event continues to grow each year as one of Northwest Georgia’s premier community festivals.
Arrest Report - Monday - May 25, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, May 25, 2026:
Heavy Rain, Flooding Threat Continues Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia This Week
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for several more days of wet and stormy weather as an unsettled weather pattern remains locked over the region through much of the upcoming week.
The National Weather Service says widespread showers and thunderstorms are expected daily, especially during the afternoon and evening hours. A Flood Watch remains in effect through late tonight for much of north Georgia northwest of Interstate 85, including Northwest Georgia counties where heavy rainfall could quickly lead to flash flooding.
Forecasters say deep tropical moisture moving north from the Gulf of Mexico continues to fuel repeated rounds of storms. Some areas in north Georgia have already received between 5 and 8 inches of rain over the past few days, and additional heavy rainfall could bring another 2 to 3 inches in localized spots where storms repeatedly move over the same area.
Low-lying areas, creeks, poor drainage locations, and flood-prone roadways in Chattooga County and surrounding communities could see flooding issues if heavier storms develop.
While the overall severe weather threat remains somewhat limited, a few stronger storms could still produce damaging wind gusts, frequent lightning, and small hail during the afternoon and evening hours.
Forecasters say the pattern is expected to continue through the remainder of the week as a stalled weather setup keeps Northwest Georgia trapped between high pressure off the Atlantic coast and a slow-moving upper-level disturbance over the southern Plains.
Temperatures are expected to remain seasonable with highs mainly in the mid-80s and overnight lows in the mid-60s.
Motorists are urged to use caution during heavy rainfall and never attempt to drive through flooded roadways.
Memorial Day Observed Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia
Today is Memorial Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring and remembering the men and women of the United States Armed Forces who gave their lives while serving our country.
Originally known as Decoration Day following the Civil War, the holiday began in the late 1860s as communities gathered to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. Over time, the observance expanded to honor all American military personnel who died in service to the nation. Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971 and is observed each year on the last Monday in May.
In observance of the holiday, federal, state, and local government offices are closed today, including Chattooga County government offices, the City of Summerville, the City of Menlo, the Town of Trion, and the Town of Lyerly. Banks and post offices are also closed for the Memorial Day holiday.
Chattooga County officials say county dump sites and the transfer station will remain open and operate on their regular schedules today.
Transit services, administrative offices, and several other county departments are closed for the holiday and will reopen during normal business hours on Tuesday.
Officials remind residents that for emergencies or situations requiring crew dispatch, residents should call 911.
Swimming Safety Important As Summer Begins Across Chattooga County
With school out for the summer and warmer temperatures arriving across Northwest Georgia, swimming safety is an important reminder for local families.
Chattooga County does not currently have public swimming pools available, which means many residents either travel outside the county to swim in a pool or turn to local rivers, creeks, lakes, and swimming holes to cool off.
Safety officials say swimming in natural waterways is very different from swimming in a controlled pool environment. Rivers and creeks can have strong currents, hidden drop-offs, slippery rocks, underwater debris, and sudden changes in depth. Water conditions can also change quickly after heavy rainfall.
Unlike a swimming pool, natural water is often murky, making it harder to see rocks, stumps, tree limbs, fishing line, or uneven bottoms beneath the surface. Officials warn swimmers never to dive into unfamiliar water.
Children should always be closely supervised around any body of water, and life jackets are strongly recommended for young children, weaker swimmers, and anyone near deep or moving water.
Swimmers should also stay away from dams, spillways, and fast-moving water. During summer storms, everyone should leave the water immediately if thunder or lightning develops nearby.
Officials say families can still enjoy Chattooga County’s natural waterways this summer by staying alert, swimming with a buddy, using proper safety gear, and understanding that rivers, creeks, and lakes carry risks that swimming pools do not.
Rising Gas Prices Creating Financial Strain For Chattooga County Commuters
High gasoline prices are continuing to put financial pressure on thousands of Chattooga County residents who travel outside the county each day for work.
Statistics show that approximately 3,600 to 4,000 Chattooga County residents — nearly 40 percent of the local workforce — commute to jobs outside the county. Many workers travel daily to neighboring Floyd County, including Rome, or to Walker County and other Northwest Georgia communities for employment opportunities.
With average commute times around 28 minutes one-way, many local workers are now spending significantly more on fuel each month as gas prices remain elevated heading into the busy summer travel season.
For residents making the daily drive to Rome, Dalton, Lafayette, Chattanooga, or surrounding areas, the rising cost of gasoline is becoming a growing burden on household budgets already stretched by inflation and higher food, utility, and housing costs.
Workers with longer commutes or larger vehicles say weekly fuel expenses can quickly add up, especially for families with multiple commuters in the household. Some residents report spending hundreds of dollars each month just to get to and from work.
The impact is particularly noticeable in rural counties like Chattooga, where public transportation options are limited and many residents rely entirely on personal vehicles for employment, medical appointments, shopping, and other daily needs.
Economic experts say rural commuters often feel the effects of rising gas prices more sharply because they typically travel greater distances for jobs and services than residents in larger metropolitan areas.
Despite the challenges, many Chattooga County residents continue commuting outside the county because of limited local employment opportunities and higher-paying jobs available in surrounding communities.
Drought Conditions Continue Across Chattooga County Despite Holiday Rain Chances
Despite several rounds of rainfall across Northwest Georgia in recent days, drought conditions continue to persist in Chattooga County, according to weather officials and drought monitoring data.
Today, Memorial Day — Monday, May 25, 2026 — the forecast is calling for an 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms across Chattooga County and surrounding areas. Forecasters warn that periods of heavy rain and thunderstorms could disrupt outdoor holiday celebrations, cookouts, ceremonies, and travel plans throughout the day.
Even with additional rainfall expected, meteorologists say the recent precipitation has provided only limited relief and has not been enough to erase the significant rainfall deficit that has developed over the past several months.
Officials say much of the rain has only temporarily dampened the surface while deeper soil moisture levels remain critically low in many locations. Streams, creeks, and other waterways in parts of Northwest Georgia also continue running below normal levels for this time of year.
Dry conditions across the region continue to create elevated wildfire concerns despite the recent wet weather pattern. Forestry officials say vegetation and forest fuels remain dry enough in some areas to support fire growth when conditions briefly dry out between rain events.
Residents are encouraged to continue using caution with outdoor burning, campfires, fireworks, grills, and equipment that could accidentally spark a wildfire. Officials also recommend monitoring local burn advisories and fire danger statements as weather conditions change throughout the week.
Forecasters say the weather pattern this week will remain active, with daily chances for showers and thunderstorms continuing across Northwest Georgia. While the additional rainfall may gradually improve conditions in some areas, experts caution that it will likely take an extended period of above-normal rainfall to completely eliminate the ongoing drought conditions affecting Chattooga County.
Chattooga Library Hosting Family Bingo Event June 4
Families looking for a fun summer activity can take part in a Family Bingo event next month at the Chattooga Library in Summerville.
The event is scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, beginning at 5:30 p.m. at the Chattooga Library located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.
According to organizers with the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, the activity is designed for all ages and participants will have the opportunity to compete for prizes during the evening.
The event is open to the public, and organizers say families, children, and community members are encouraged to attend.
For more information, contact the Chattooga Library at 706-857-2553.
Northwest Georgia Guard Units Dispatched To Support Washington, D.C. Mission
Governor Brian Kemp has authorized the deployment of Georgia National Guard units, including troops from Northwest Georgia, to Washington, D.C., as part of an extended public safety support mission continuing through the end of 2026.
According to information released about the operation, units from armories in Calhoun, Canton, Cedartown, and Dalton are among those supporting Joint Task Force–District of Columbia, known as JTF-DC.
The mission was originally authorized in late 2025 and has now been extended through December 31, 2026.
Georgia National Guard members are assisting with public safety operations in the nation’s capital by providing a visible security presence and supporting law enforcement through logistical, administrative, and medical assistance.
Officials say Georgia Guard soldiers were recently involved in assisting Washington, D.C. authorities during a Metro system theft and assault incident, where Guardsmen reportedly provided immediate medical aid and helped local police at the scene.
Governor Kemp’s office says the deployment is part of ongoing coordination efforts to help maintain safety and support law enforcement operations in the District of Columbia.
SBA Drought Disaster Loans Available For Chattooga County Businesses
Low-interest federal disaster loans are now available for eligible small businesses and private nonprofit organizations in Chattooga County affected by ongoing drought conditions.
The U.S. Small Business Administration announced a disaster declaration on May 18, 2026, for Chattooga County and surrounding areas. The declaration is intended to help offset economic losses caused by drought conditions that began February 17, 2026.
The loans are Economic Injury Disaster Loans, or EIDLs, which provide working capital to help businesses meet ordinary financial obligations they may not be able to cover because of the drought.
Eligible applicants include small businesses, small agricultural cooperatives, small aquaculture businesses, and most private nonprofit organizations. Agricultural producers, farmers, and ranchers are not eligible for SBA disaster loans, but may qualify for assistance through the USDA.
Interest rates are capped at 4 percent for small businesses and 3.625 percent for private nonprofits, with terms available up to 30 years.
The deadline to apply for economic injury assistance is January 4, 2027.
Businesses may apply online through the SBA Disaster Loan Portal, by calling the SBA Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955, or by emailing disastercustomerservice@sba.gov.
Summerville Man Arrested On DUI Charge In Rome
A Summerville man was arrested by the Georgia State Patrol over the weekend on a charge of driving under the influence.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 34-year-old Kevante Lamar Baldwin of Turner Street in Summerville was taken into custody Saturday following a traffic stop in the area of North Second Avenue and West Third Street in Rome.
Arrest reports indicate Baldwin was charged with DUI after authorities determined he was over the legal limit for alcohol.
Baldwin was later released from custody after posting bond.