PROJECT ALERT NOTICE (TN) Flooding on the Ocoee near Copperhill, TN

Date: Thu, 05 Nov 2026 15:07:30 EST

Summary: Significant rainfall and flash flooding near the state borders of Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina resulted in historically high stream levels along the Ocoee River.

An isolated storm produced more than 10 inches of rainfall near the towns of McCaysville, GA, and Copperhill, TN, resulting in historic water levels along the Ocoee River. Localized flooding led to multiple evacuations and rescues.

A USGS team from our Knoxville office was deployed to the Ocoee River at Copperhill, TN (USGS 03559500) streamgage. The streamgage was successfully repaired; however, peak stage was not recorded.

The team completed discharge measurements and documented high-water marks along the Ocoee River. Additional surveying and analysis will be required to confirm the peak of record.