Heavy rain and flash flooding in Tennessee have claimed the lives of a mother, father, and their child after a large tree fell on their car early Wednesday, August 13, in East Ridge, near Chattanooga. Officials say the ground was so soaked from the storm that the tree’s roots gave way.
According to Hamilton County emergency officials, the accident happened just after midnight. The Associated Press and BBC confirmed the family’s deaths. In a separate incident, a fourth person also died during the storms. Authorities have not yet released the victims’ names.
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The flooding began Tuesday evening, prompting Hamilton County Mayor Weston Wamp to declare a state of emergency. First responders worked through the night, rescuing trapped residents from rising waters. Photos shared by the Hamilton County Office of Emergency Management (HCOEM) show rescue crews wading through knee-deep water.
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Interstate 24 was closed in both directions between Belvoir and Spring Creek Road on Tuesday due to dangerous flooding. Officials urged drivers to avoid flooded streets, warning that ditches and creeks could overflow.
The National Weather Service says more heavy rain and possible flash flooding are expected through Wednesday night in parts of Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to remain alert and ready to act quickly if conditions worsen.
