Hurricane Isaias Brings Strong Winds and Rain to Tennessee Valley

Hurricane Isaias is moving north through the Southeast, bringing strong winds, heavy rain and flood risks to Chattanooga and surrounding Tennessee areas as officials prepare for impacts. The Category 3 storm is expected to affect the region with gusts, rainfall and possible outages.

The National Weather Service said Chattanooga could receive 1 to 2 inches of rain between Saturday and Sunday morning, while wind gusts of 30 to 40 mph are expected across the Tennessee Valley through Sunday morning.

National Weather Service meteorologist Anthony Cavallucci said winds, rather than rainfall totals, are the main concern for the Chattanooga area as the storm moves inland.

"When we say \"heavy rain,\" 1 to 2 inches, you guys see that with a thunderstorm," said Anthony Cavallucci, National Weather Service meteorologist.

"I don't think the rainfall is gonna be our main issue here," said Anthony Cavallucci, National Weather Service meteorologist.

Cavallucci said isolated storms could produce damaging winds, with a tornado risk south of Dalton. He also warned that trees, power lines and outages are the primary concerns.

"Wind, trees, power lines, power outages are kind of more what I'm concerned about," said Anthony Cavallucci, National Weather Service meteorologist.

The weather service said higher elevations and parts of Georgia could see gusts reaching 50 mph. A flood watch was issued for areas including Chattanooga, Cleveland, Pikeville and Monteagle.

"I think we're gonna have this under control," said Anthony Cavallucci, National Weather Service meteorologist.

"I hope that it ends up being not as bad as what we're saying," said Anthony Cavallucci, National Weather Service meteorologist.

Chattanooga officials also prepared for possible flooding and infrastructure problems after a weeklong sewer overflow in South Chickamauga Creek released an estimated 500,000 to 700,000 gallons of sewage before stopping Friday morning.

Chattanooga wastewater spokesperson Ayanna Bronner said crews were monitoring conditions while restrictions remained in place near the creek and Tennessee River areas during pollution analysis.

"The rain can definitely create some challenges for us, but we are monitoring the weather closely and have staff on call all weekend to respond to any issues," said Ayanna Bronner, Chattanooga wastewater spokesperson.

Public works spokesperson Errol Williams said six teams were assigned for emergency response, including equipment to remove fallen trees and handle flood calls.

"equipped with chainsaws, knuckle boom trucks, backhoes and flashers to respond to flood calls and clear downed trees," said Errol Williams, Chattanooga public works spokesperson.

EPB prepared additional resources for possible power disruptions as Isaias passed through the region, with utility crews placed on call and outside crews brought in to assist.

"We are readying our personnel, equipment and resources to respond to any outages as quickly as possible," said Sophie Moore, EPB spokesperson.

Moore also urged customers to prepare before severe weather conditions arrived and monitor outage information through available utility resources.

"Prepare now," said Sophie Moore, EPB spokesperson.

"We encourage customers to take time now to prepare, stay informed and use extra caution this weekend as severe weather moves through our region," said Sophie Moore, EPB spokesperson.

Chattanooga Gas warned residents to avoid damaged gas equipment and report possible leaks after severe weather. The company highlighted safety steps for customers if natural gas odors are detected.

"If you smell the distinctive \"rotten egg\" odor associated with natural gas, leave the area immediately and move away from the potential leak," said Chattanooga Gas.

AAA also advised Tennessee residents to secure homes and vehicles before conditions worsen, recommending emergency supplies and caution when traveling during severe weather.

"The biggest mistake Tennesseans can make is waiting until the storm is already overhead to take action," said Megan Cooper, AAA - The Auto Club Group spokeswoman.

"Secure your property, know where you will shelter and check your vehicle now. Once warnings are issued, your priority should be getting to safety, not getting on the road," said Megan Cooper, AAA - The Auto Club Group spokeswoman.