GILMER COUNTY, Ga. — Torrential rainfall overnight transformed what began as a severe thunderstorm capable of producing tornadoes into one of the most significant flash flooding events Gilmer County has experienced in recent years. A Flash Flood Warning was issued at approximately 10:25 p.m. Tuesday after the storm stalled over the county, dumping nearly four inches of rain in a short period of time. According to Gilmer County Emergency Management, a rain gauge in downtown Ellijay recorded 3.8 inches of rainfall in just one hour, while the Gilmer County Emergency Operations Center measured an official storm total of 3.94 inches. The heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding, road washouts, power outages and damage to infrastructure across the county. Among the most severe impacts, Gates Chapel Road at Zion Hill Road was completely washed out after sustaining catastrophic damage. State Highway 52 West also remains closed due to a water main break caused by flooding along Cox Creek. The Georgia Department of Transportation currently estimates repairs could take approximately three to four days, though officials noted the timeline may change as work progresses. A Boil Water Advisory remains in effect for portions of Gilmer County. Power outages affected approximately 3,800 customers at the height of the storm. Floodwaters also entered multiple buildings, including a local nursing home, forcing the relocation of 60 residents to a safe shelter. Significant flooding was reported…
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