News Summary
Severe flash floods caused by Tropical Depression Chantal have led to extensive damage across North Carolina and Georgia. This emergency situation has prompted rescue efforts as over 80 individuals faced dire conditions in affected neighborhoods. The National Weather Service has issued multiple flood warnings, with significant rainfall resulting in road closures and displacement for hundreds. Community officials urge caution as ongoing assessments and power restoration efforts are underway.
Severe Floods Hit North Carolina and Georgia
On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, severe flash floods wreaked havoc across several parts of North Carolina and Georgia, primarily due to record rainfall from Tropical Depression Chantal. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued multiple Flash Flood Warnings as thunderstorms continued to produce substantial rainfall, leading to widespread damage and crisis response efforts in affected areas.
In central North Carolina, Doppler radar indicated rainfall amounts ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 inches, with additional rainfall between 0.5 to 1.5 inches expected at rates of up to 2 inches per hour. Flash flooding is ongoing or imminent in several regions, including Hampstead, Manchester, and Millers, as well as cities in nearby areas like Lineboro, Freeland, Bentley Springs, Maryland Line, and Norrisville.
Tropical Depression Chantal, which made landfall near Litchfield Beach, South Carolina, on July 7, resulted in rainfall totals of 8 to 10 inches across the hardest-hit regions. This led to significant flooding events, including the Eno River in Durham, which crested at 25.63 feet, surpassing its previous record. Similarly, the Haw River reached 32.5 feet, now marking the second-highest level on record. Chatham County experienced considerable disruptions, with over 100 roads flooded, including the collapse of NC 902.
A Flood Watch remains in effect across central North Carolina until midnight EDT on July 10, due to the potential for continued heavy rainfall from the system’s remnants. In Georgia, NWS Atlanta issued a Flash Flood Warning for metro Atlanta around 6:52 PM EDT, lasting until 10:45 PM EDT. Urban areas in Atlanta experienced rainfall of 1 to 3 inches, straining stormwater systems and leading to flash flooding in low-lying zones and highways. Videos from the affected parts of the city showcase waist-deep water submerging streets, stranding vehicles, and debris-filled parking lots, particularly in East Atlanta and Downtown Atlanta.
Rescue Efforts and Community Impact
This week, approximately 80 individuals in the Old Farm neighborhood along the Eno River were rescued via boat due to extreme flooding. New footage shows residents navigating through knee-high water, as aerial views reveal extensive inundation of neighborhoods. Meanwhile, High Meadow Road, Omega Road, Felicia Street, and Greymont Drive have been among the heavily impacted areas.
In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, over 50 water rescues were reported as floodwaters threatened numerous apartments and shopping centers. More than 60 people were displaced due to the rapidly rising water levels, although there have been no reported injuries associated with these incidents.
As of Monday morning, the storm’s aftermath left more than 34,000 customers without power in the region, as utility companies work to restore service. Community officials have advised residents to exercise caution when traveling through the area as assessments of damage and the clearance of downed trees continue. Water rescues are ongoing in locations where floodwaters have entered or posed threats to homes and businesses.
Background on Tropical Depression Chantal
Tropical Depression Chantal made its way up the East Coast, causing turmoil as it retreated from the coastal regions and into the landlocked areas of North Carolina and Georgia. The significant downpours experienced within a short period resulted in serious flash flooding, which has become a significant concern for local populations and emergency services. As these areas brace for additional rainfall and ongoing flooding dangers, residents remain vigilant.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- Hindustan Times: Severe Floods Hit North Carolina and Georgia
- Wikipedia: Flash Flood
- New York Times: Tropical Storm Chantal
- Google Search: Tropical Storm Chantal
- CBS News: Tropical Storm Chantal Forms
- Google Scholar: Tropical Storm Chantal
- Fox News: Flash Flooding in Central North Carolina
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Flash Flood
- WRAL: Continued Flash Floods in Central NC
- Google News: Northern Carolina Floods
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
ATLANTA STAFF WRITER The ATLANTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAtlanta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Atlanta, Fulton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as vibrant music festivals like Shaky Knees and Music Midtown, major cultural celebrations including Dragon Con and the Atlanta Film Festival, and iconic sporting events like the Peachtree Road Race. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and the Atlanta Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, beverages, and retail that power the local economy such as Delta Air Lines, The Coca-Cola Company, and The Home Depot. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAugusta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
