Staying Safe During Thunderstorms
When thunder roars, Chattanooga stays indoors. We want to ensure you and your family are prepared. Follow these simple steps to find shelter and protect your electronics during a storm.
Roadway Safety: "Turn Around, Don't Drown"
- Hidden Danger: It is impossible to tell how deep water is or if the road underneath has been washed away.
- Power of Water: * 6 Inches: Can knock an adult off their feet.
- 12 Inches: Can sweep away most small cars.
- 24 Inches: Can carry away SUVs and trucks.
- Night Driving: Be extra cautious at night when floodwaters are harder to see.
Property Protection
- Clear the Drains: Clogged storm drains are the #1 cause of street flooding in Chattanooga. Ensure the gutter and drain near your home are free of leaves and trash.
- Sandbags: During major flood threats, the city may provide sandbags at designated fire stations or public works centers. Check the [Live Status] bar for current availability.
After the Flood
- Stay Out: Avoid wading in floodwater. It often contains sewage, sharp debris, or "downed-but-active" power lines.
- Document: If your home is flooded, take photos of all damage before starting any cleanup for insurance purposes.
Quick Links for Immediate Help During Active Events
CHA 311 – Report Fallen trees, blocked drains, or street debris.
Road Closures – Active road closures and train crossing blocks.
EPB Outage – View maps and report power outages.
Hamilton Ready Alerts – Sign up for text/email emergency notifications from Hamilton County.
911 Active Incidents – Real-time road closures and first responder activity.
Storms & Safety
Understanding City Closures
When a closure is announced, we shift focus to essential services.
| Department | Hours of Operation | Areas of Focus |
| 911/Fire/Police | 24/7 | |
| Trash & Recycling | 8am - 5pm | |
| Community Centers | Find your Community Center Hours |
