The week of Sept. 19 saw a huge wave of rainfall for the Chattanooga area that caused some flooding and harsh conditions. Luckily, no one was harmed. Dave Flessner of the Chattanooga Times Free Press said the city has received about 10.8 more inches of rain this year than normal.
Although last year did have a little more than is currently totaled, holding the record for the wettest year in Chattanooga of 52.7 inches of rain, this year has totaled 50.5 inches. September also saw some large jumps in rainfall. There was double the average rainfall on Sunday, September 19th, at 2.6 inches total.
A collection of roads were closed off due to flooding and dangerous conditions. About half have reopened, but a few remained closed as of September 21. The low-set roads were vulnerable and became engulfed in overflow.
Most of these were in the east Chattanooga area. There were flood warnings issued by the National Weather Service, and some power lines went down, as well as some trees, causing the road closures. News Channel 9 said many crews were working on these areas, and more were watching up to 220 places that were likely to flood so that they could minimize any danger.
Some roads were impassable with the amount of water running over them, so workers told the public to heed every “road closed” sign, and to drive with extreme caution in the marked areas. Crews were urgent in informing people to avoid or go around those roads at all costs. Dowlen Road, North Crest Road, and Northmont Road were some of the roads affected. But the workers’ goal was ultimately to keep the roads open, so consequently, the crews had their work cut out for them. On mountainous terrain, these conditions are not a joke, and can become quite serious when driving without taking precautions.
Some of the more common areas that flood - like Chickamauga or Signal Mountain - were fine this time. While all of the surrounding areas felt the effects of the rain, not all got an excessive or endangering amount.
The rain held off any outdoor landscaping or activities that are usually at large on campus around Day of Prayer. Hall traditions were postponed or canceled, and people without rain jackets were caught off guard. But right after worship on the overlook in Rock City, the floodgates opened. It poured for the remainder of the morning, which caused a cold front that lasted well into the week.
Students enjoyed apple cider, bonfires, and sweaters to celebrate the cool weather. The weather was in the mid 50’s on the 22 and 23, and everyone was outdoors for the new fall season. Hammocks and hot drinks, smores and brisk air were enjoyed by students across campus and soon enough the trees will change colors as well.