Hot, Mostly Dry Weather Settles In For The Week
Sunday will bring a return to mostly sunny, dry and warmer weather across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia following Saturday’s rounds of showers and thunderstorms.
Some patchy fog and lower clouds could develop early Sunday morning, especially in locations that picked up heavier rainfall on Saturday. Any fog or low clouds should gradually burn off after sunrise, giving way to partly to mostly sunny skies for the remainder of the day.
Temperatures will climb quickly, with Sunday afternoon’s high expected to reach around 92 degrees. Winds will be light, with calm conditions early before a north wind develops at around 5 mph. Rain chances are essentially absent across Northwest Georgia Sunday, with any isolated afternoon storms expected to remain well south of the area.
Sunday night will be mostly clear and mild, with temperatures falling to around 69 degrees.
The hottest day of the early week could come Monday. Sunshine will dominate, with an afternoon high near 94 degrees. Humidity will remain high enough that heat index values could reach around 100 degrees, particularly during the hottest part of the afternoon. Anyone working or spending extended periods outdoors Monday should keep the heat in mind and take regular breaks and stay hydrated.
A ridge of high pressure will continue building across the Southeast during the first half of the week. That will bring a drier air mass into Georgia and keep rain chances very low through at least Wednesday and Thursday.
Tuesday through Thursday will remain sunny and hot, with afternoon temperatures generally reaching around 93 degrees. Even though temperatures will stay well above 90, conditions should gradually become somewhat more comfortable as humidity levels decrease. Dew points are expected to fall from the upper 60s and lower 70s early in the week into the lower and middle 60s by Wednesday, reducing the oppressive feel of the heat.
Overnight temperatures will also slowly become a little cooler, dropping from around 70 early in the week into the middle 60s Wednesday and Thursday nights.
Friday should remain mostly sunny and hot with temperatures around 92. Forecast models indicate moisture could begin increasing again late in the week as a disturbance approaches from the Atlantic. That could eventually bring back scattered rain and thunderstorm chances, with the current forecast showing a 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms by Saturday.
Overall, Northwest Georgia is looking at an extended stretch of sunny, hot and mostly dry September weather, with daytime highs remaining in the lower to middle 90s for much of the coming week.
Summerville Council Faces Packed Monday Agenda With Road Work, Recreation Project, Data Centers And Kratom
The Summerville City Council has a busy agenda waiting when members meet Monday evening.
The regular called meeting is scheduled for Monday, September 14, at 5 PM at the Summerville Depot.
Among the major items, council members are expected to award bids for city road resurfacing and the Summerville Recreation restroom renovation project. The council will also consider a contract for cloud-based storage of body-worn camera footage.
Another significant item involves data centers. The council is scheduled to discuss a possible moratorium and consider a resolution regarding data centers. Members will also discuss the sale of kratom within the city limits.
The council will consider renaming the Summerville Turntable in memory of former Mayor Joe Robert Norton and officially naming the drive serving the new soccer complex “Harry Harvey Dr.”
WZQZ News will have more on the individual agenda items ahead of Monday evening’s meeting.
AdventHealth Redmond Adds Robotic Technology To Improve Lung Cancer Diagnosis
AdventHealth Redmond has expanded its lung cancer diagnostic services with the launch of a new robotic bronchoscopy system designed to help doctors reach and biopsy small or difficult-to-access lung nodules.
The hospital recently began using the Ion robotic bronchoscopy platform, with the first procedure performed on August 26.
The technology gives physicians greater stability, precision and reach when navigating deep into the lungs, including peripheral areas where small nodules can be particularly difficult to access using traditional methods.
The launch comes as AdventHealth Redmond has also reopened its lung nodule clinic, providing patients across Northwest Georgia with a more comprehensive process for evaluating suspicious lung nodules and, when necessary, diagnosing lung cancer.
Dr. Bret Stysly, a pulmonologist at AdventHealth Redmond, said the new system represents a significant advancement in the hospital’s ability to diagnose lung abnormalities earlier and with greater precision.
When a suspicious lung nodule is discovered, determining whether it is cancerous can be critical to deciding the next steps in a patient’s care. The Ion system provides a minimally invasive way for physicians to navigate into the lungs and obtain tissue samples from nodules that might otherwise be difficult to reach.
In appropriate cases, physicians may also be able to perform a biopsy and lymph node staging during the same anesthesia event, potentially shortening the time between discovering a suspicious nodule, obtaining a diagnosis and developing a treatment plan.
In the past, some patients with small nodules have required repeated imaging to watch for changes or have been referred for other biopsy procedures that can carry greater risks of complications. Hospital officials say robotic bronchoscopy provides physicians with another diagnostic option.
With the Ion platform and reopened lung nodule clinic, AdventHealth Redmond says patients can now move through detection, evaluation, biopsy, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up care within one connected healthcare system, providing greater access to advanced lung cancer services closer to home.
Man Arrested After Reported Disturbance At Spearmint Trail Residence
A man was arrested by the Summerville Police Department following a reported disturbance at a residence on Spearmint Trail earlier this month.
According to an incident report, an officer was dispatched to 22 Spearmint Trail at approximately 12:15 PM on September 5 in reference to a man reportedly refusing to leave the residence.
Police said they encountered a man later identified as Trevor Wagner near the intersection of Scoggins Street and Spearmint Trail. According to the report, Wagner was carrying and drinking from a large container when the officer attempted to speak with him.
The officer reported that Wagner initially refused commands to stop and continued walking away before eventually stopping. Police said Wagner appeared intoxicated and smelled of alcohol.
According to the report, Wagner told the officer he had been at the residence with friends and had used marijuana. The complainant, John Smith, told police that Wagner had come to the residence from Jason Mitchell’s home and that he had given Wagner some food and allowed him to use his phone to call his mother.
The report states that Wagner then became involved in an argument with his mother over the phone. Smith told police he instructed Wagner to leave, but Wagner allegedly became irate and refused.
Police said Wagner was arrested and transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
Chattooga Family Connection Gets Early Start On Christmas “Stuff A Stocking” Drive
It may only be September, but Chattooga Family Connection is getting an early start on Christmas by asking the community to help fill stockings for local children, teenagers and families.
The organization has launched its Christmas “Stuff a Stocking” Donation Drive, collecting a variety of small gifts and everyday items that can be distributed throughout the community during the Christmas season.
Among the suggested donations are lip gloss and ChapStick, personal hygiene items, socks, hair products and brushes, toys, dolls and action figures, hats and gloves, journals, cups and water bottles, perfume and cologne, and gift cards. Organizers say those are only suggestions, and other appropriate stocking-stuffer items are also welcome.
Chattooga Family Connection says items such as ChapStick, lip gloss and socks are particularly useful because they can be distributed among a wide range of ages.
While Christmas is still several months away, organizers are beginning the collection now to give the community plenty of time to donate and to help ensure there are enough items available when the stockings are prepared.
Those who would rather make a monetary donation can also contribute to the effort.
Anyone interested in donating or learning more about the Christmas project can contact Maisha Ludy at 706-388-9849 or maisha.ludy@gmail.com.
Chattooga Family Connection says even small donations can make a big impact as the community works together to bring a little extra joy to local families this Christmas.
Firewise Adventure Day To Bring First Responders, Scouting And Outdoor Education To Camp Sidney Dew
Families from across Northwest Georgia are invited to Camp Sidney Dew next Saturday for a free family event featuring emergency vehicles, first responders, outdoor education and Scouting activities.
Firewise Adventure Day will be held Saturday, September 19, from 9 AM until 4 PM at Camp Sidney Dew, located at 3624 Everett Springs Road in Armuchee. Admission is free and the event is open to the public.
The event will combine a “Touch a Truck” experience with hands-on Scouting demonstrations and educational programs focused on wildfire prevention, environmental awareness and protecting natural resources.
Visitors will be able to see specialized vehicles and equipment from several agencies and organizations, including the Floyd County Police Department Bomb Squad and SWAT Team, Floyd County Sheriff’s Office, Floyd County Emergency Management Agency and Georgia Power.
Children and adults will have an opportunity to get an up-close look at equipment used by first responders, emergency personnel and utility crews while learning more about the work those agencies perform throughout Northwest Georgia.
Local Scouting America units will also offer demonstrations featuring Pinewood Derby racing, backpacking, high-adventure programs, outdoor skills and environmental education.
Event organizer Max McAdams said Firewise Adventure Day is designed to make learning about safety and conservation fun for the entire family.
The event will also provide information on ways families can help protect homes, forests and natural resources, including outdoor preparedness and steps that can reduce wildfire risks.
Families interested in Scouting will be able to meet local leaders and learn more about programs available to children and teenagers across Northwest Georgia.
Firewise Adventure Day is set for Saturday, September 19, from 9 AM until 4 PM at Camp Sidney Dew in northern Floyd County.
Walker County Sheriff’s Office Warns Residents About Active Jury Duty Scam
The Walker County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about another active scam after multiple citizens reported receiving fraudulent calls from people pretending to be Sheriff’s Office employees.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the callers tell residents they have missed jury duty and now have a warrant for their arrest. The scammers then claim the supposed warrant or other legal issue can be resolved by paying money.
In some cases, victims are instructed to purchase Green Dot cards or use other methods to send payment.
The Walker County Sheriff’s Office says the calls are fraudulent and emphasized that the Sheriff’s Office will not call residents and demand money to resolve a warrant or missed jury duty.
Officials are urging residents not to send money to anyone they do not know, regardless of how convincing or urgent the caller may sound.
Anyone receiving one of the calls who is uncertain whether it is legitimate can contact the Walker County Sheriff’s Office directly to verify the information before taking any action.
The warning comes as law enforcement agencies continue to see scammers impersonating officers and government employees in an effort to frighten victims into making immediate payments.
Man Arrested After Being Found In Underwear On Halls Valley Road Property
A 30-year-old man was arrested by the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office after deputies responded to a report of a suspicious person on private property earlier this month.
According to a Sheriff’s Office incident report, Deputy Benjamin Mollohan was dispatched to 1121 Halls Valley Road at approximately 12:14 PM on September 5.
The report states that the deputy arrived to find Devan Eric Powell, 30, standing in his underwear next to another man, identified in the report as Dillon Whorley.
Powell was placed in the rear of a patrol vehicle while deputies investigated. According to the report, Whorley told deputies he had been called to the property by his mother after she found Powell walking around the property.
Deputies were also told that Powell had allegedly caused damage at another property at 1123 Halls Valley Road.
According to the report, the property owner said Powell had been on the property for some time and allegedly caused damage to a pasture gate. Deputies reported finding the gate down with significant damage to the gate post.
The investigation then led deputies to a 2017 Chevrolet Impala in a wooded area on the property. The report states that the vehicle had significant damage to the front end and appeared to have been driven through a pasture and into the woods.
Deputies said a pair of shoes was found near the vehicle, and the property owner reported seeing Powell put on a pair of brown shoes when he was initially encountered. According to the report, Powell was unable to provide relevant information when questioned about the incident.
Powell was arrested on charges listed in the report as loitering or prowling and damage to property and was transported to the Chattooga County Jail.
The damaged vehicle was left on the property because deputies were unable to get a tow truck to the location. The property owner said he would contact a wrecker service to remove it.
Northwest Georgia Summer Burn Ban Ends October 1
Residents across much of Northwest Georgia have less than three weeks remaining under Georgia’s annual summer outdoor burning ban.
The Georgia Environmental Protection Division’s summer burn ban remains in effect through September 30, meaning normal seasonal burning can resume beginning Thursday, October 1 in counties covered by the restriction.
The annual ban runs from May 1 through September 30 and includes Chattooga, Floyd, Gordon, Walker and Catoosa counties, along with dozens of other Georgia counties. The restriction is intended to help reduce air pollution during the warmer months, when conditions are more favorable for the formation of ground-level ozone.
During the summer ban, residents are generally prohibited from burning yard debris and land-clearing debris, including leaves, limbs and other natural vegetation.
Once the ban ends October 1, residents may again conduct certain types of outdoor burning, but that does not mean all burning is automatically allowed.
The Georgia Forestry Commission says notification is no longer required for residents burning hand-piled natural vegetation on the property where the material originated. However, anyone conducting an outdoor burn must follow Georgia’s required safety precautions, including having an adult present, keeping adequate water and tools available, and ensuring the fire is completely extinguished before leaving it unattended.
Permits are still required for certain larger burns, including some machine-piled and land-clearing operations. Local governments can also have additional burning restrictions, and outdoor burning may be restricted during periods of high fire danger or drought.
For Chattooga County residents, the statewide summer restriction remains in place for the rest of September, with the regular burning season returning October 1.
Arrest Report - Saturday - September 12, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Saturday, September 12, 2026:
Saturday Weather: Storms And Heavy Rain Possible Before Hotter, Drier Weather Returns
Keep the umbrella handy today as showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia this afternoon.
Patchy fog is possible through mid-morning. Showers and storms become more numerous during the afternoon, with the chance of rain at 60 percent. Today’s high will be around 86 degrees, with light winds becoming southwest around 5 mph.
While the overall severe-weather threat is low, some thunderstorms could produce gusty winds, frequent lightning and locally heavy rainfall. The National Weather Service says the atmosphere remains exceptionally moist, meaning repeated thunderstorms could produce very heavy rain over the same locations.
Localized flash flooding will be a concern, particularly in areas that received heavy rainfall Friday. Isolated rainfall amounts of 3 to 4 inches could occur in only an hour or two beneath the strongest storms. Saturated ground could also make it easier for trees to come down, even with winds below severe-thunderstorm levels.
Storm chances decrease quickly this evening, with only a 30 percent chance before about 8 PM. Tonight will be partly cloudy with a low around 69.
A major change arrives Sunday. Mostly sunny skies return with a high near 91, and the hotter, drier pattern continues into next week.
Monday is expected to be the hottest day of the period with sunshine and a high around 94 degrees. Highs remain in the lower 90s Tuesday through Friday, with mostly sunny to sunny skies and very little chance of rain.
Trion Outlasts Dade County In 42-35 Road Win
The Trion Bulldogs picked up their third victory of the season Friday night, winning a high-scoring battle over the Dade County Wolverines, 42-35, in Trenton.
The Bulldogs and Wolverines traded scores throughout the night, but Trion was able to come away with the seven-point victory. MaxPreps now lists the game as final, with Trion improving to 3-1 and Dade County falling to 1-3.
Friday’s victory gives Trion back-to-back wins. The Bulldogs defeated Ridgeland 38-17 last week after opening the season with a 36-7 victory over Gordon Lee and suffering their only loss thus far, 31-7 against Model.
The win also continues a strong start to the season for head coach Sean Patrick’s Bulldogs, who have now scored at least 36 points in each of their three victories.
Trion returns home next Friday night, September 18, when the Bulldogs host Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe at 7:30 PM.
Chattooga Falls Short In Defensive Battle At Coosa, 14-7
The Chattooga Indians came up just short on the road Friday night, falling to the Coosa Eagles 14-7 in a low-scoring non-region matchup in Rome.
Chattooga entered the game looking for its first win of the season and turned in its strongest defensive performance of the young season, holding Coosa to just two touchdowns. The Indians, however, were unable to generate enough offense to overcome the Eagles.
The loss drops Chattooga to 0-3 on the season under head coach Roone Gable, while Coosa improves to 2-1.
There was also a concerning moment during Friday night’s game when Chattooga’s #2, Aiden Fletcher, was injured. Fletcher is expected to be okay following the injury.
Despite the loss, the Indians showed improvement defensively after allowing 33 points against LaFayette in the season opener and 42 points against Model last week.
Chattooga will remain on the road next week as the Indians travel to Ridgeland on Friday, September 18, for another non-region matchup. The Panthers enter the game at 0-4 after falling to LaFayette 27-17 Friday night.
The Indians will look to pick up their first victory of the season before returning home to the Little Big Horn later this month.
North Georgia Cruisers Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show Happening Today In Summerville
Car, truck and motorcycle enthusiasts will be gathering in Summerville today as the North GA Cruisers Inc. hold their annual Car, Truck & Motorcycle Show at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center.
Registration begins at 8 AM and continues until noon. The show is open to a variety of vehicles, including classics and modern muscle. Current event listings confirm today’s show and the registration period.
One of the biggest attractions will be a $1,000 cash giveaway, with $700 going to the grand-prize winner and $300 for second prize.
The North Georgia Cruisers have made their annual show more than simply a gathering for automobile enthusiasts. The organization has traditionally used proceeds from the event to support area programs helping people in need, giving those attending an opportunity to enjoy the vehicles while supporting the community. Previous shows have also featured trophies, door prizes, concessions and automotive swap-meet items.
The show gets underway this morning at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center on Middle School Road in Summerville.
Calhoun Man Facing Additional Drug Charges Following Child Molestation Arrest
A Calhoun man arrested earlier this week on allegations involving a 10-year-old child is now facing additional drug charges following the execution of a search warrant at his home.
According to Floyd County Jail records, 42-year-old Zachary Joe Shortnancy was initially charged with child molestation, illegal electronic surveillance and peeping Tom.
Authorities allege Shortnancy placed a cell phone camera underneath a wall and used it to record a 10-year-old child inside her room.
During the execution of a search warrant Tuesday at Shortnancy’s Everett Springs Road home, investigators reportedly discovered more than 10 grams of suspected methamphetamine. According to jail records, the methamphetamine was individually packaged in a manner authorities allege indicated it was ready for sale.
Investigators also reported finding Roxicodone pills and a glass smoking device at the residence.
Shortnancy now faces additional charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of a Schedule II controlled substance and possession of drug-related objects.
Summerville Police Arrest Man Following Raymond Street Disturbance
A man was arrested following a reported disturbance at a Raymond Street residence in Summerville.
According to a Summerville Police Department incident report, officers were dispatched to 110 Raymond Street at approximately 11:35 PM on Monday, August 31.
The complainant told police that she and a man identified in the report as Jordan had been arguing over rent. She said the argument began inside her grandson’s room, where Jordan was allegedly screaming and tearing the room apart.
The complainant told officers she believed Jordan would damage property inside the home and showed police holes in the bedroom walls that she said he had previously made.
She also told officers she was afraid to go outside because Jordan had run from the residence after she called 911 and was hiding in a wooded area behind the home.
Officers located Jordan in the wooded area behind the residence, where police said he appeared to be hiding.
According to the report, the complainant appeared upset and frightened, and officers determined there was probable cause to believe Jordan had acted in a tumultuous manner that caused her to fear for her safety and property.
Jordan was taken into custody and transported to the Chattooga County Jail without incident. He was issued a citation for city ordinance disorderly conduct.
Chattooga High School Announces 2026 Homecoming Court
Chattooga High School has announced its 2026 Homecoming Court, with this year’s homecoming celebration coming up in just a few weeks.
The freshman representatives are Layla Albert, Georgia Foster and Karli Parker.
Representing the sophomore class are Hailey Cornejo, Yulmi Vasquez Perez and Emma Veatch.
The junior representatives are Addison DeBerry, Kendall Harrell and Gracelyn Rutledge.
This year’s senior Homecoming Court includes Carlee Childers, Brieann Edwards, Molly Gregory, Temperance Kinnebrew, Daysa Martin, Claira Moseley, Kamberli Robbins, Kiyah Shropshire, Anzli Toles and Jacey Wiggins.
Homecoming week will include the Red & Black Bash Homecoming Block Party on Wednesday, September 30, from 6 until 8 PM at Chattooga High School. The community event will bring together students, families, businesses, organizations and vendors for an evening of activities and school spirit.
The week culminates with the Chattooga Indians’ Homecoming football game Friday, October 2, when Chattooga hosts the Gordon Central Warriors at the Little Big Horn. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM.
The Homecoming Court will be part of the festivities as Chattooga students, alumni and supporters come together for one of the biggest school-spirit weeks of the year.
Georgia Deer Archery Season Opens Today; DNR Urges Tree Stand Safety
Georgia deer hunters are heading back into the woods today as the state’s 2026-2027 archery deer season gets underway, and wildlife officials are reminding hunters that one of the greatest dangers may come before they ever take a shot.
The Georgia Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Resources Division issued a reminder this week urging hunters to pay particular attention to tree stand safety.
DNR says tree stand accidents accounted for 18 of Georgia’s 24 hunting incidents during the 2025-2026 season, including two fatalities.
Hunters using ladder stands or other non-climbing portable stands should make certain the stand is securely fastened to the tree and that ladders and steps are installed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
DNR says hunters should always wear a full-body fall-arrest harness while climbing, hunting and descending from an elevated stand. Older single-strap belts and chest harnesses are no longer recommended.
Hunters should also use a haul line to raise and lower their bow, firearm and other equipment rather than attempting to climb while carrying gear.
Another important precaution is making sure someone knows where you are hunting and when you expect to return. Hunters should keep a cell phone or other signaling device where it can be reached even if they fall and are left suspended in a harness. DNR also recommends having a rescue or recovery plan before climbing into a stand.
Hunters are also reminded never to use alcohol or drugs while hunting and to avoid medications that could cause drowsiness while sitting in an elevated stand.
With deer season getting underway across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, DNR’s message is simple: a full-body harness and a few basic precautions can prevent a day in the woods from ending in serious injury or death.
More information on Georgia hunting regulations and hunter education is available through the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
$1 Billion Data Center Proposed Near Kingston In Bartow County
Another massive data center project is being proposed in Northwest Georgia, this time near Kingston in Bartow County.
A Development of Regional Impact filing submitted to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs on September 4 outlines plans for the Kingston Technology Hub, a proposed 350,000-square-foot data center on approximately 559 acres. The development is estimated to represent a $1 billion investment and is targeted for completion in 2030.
The developer is listed as Thor Acquisition, associated with New York-based Thor Equities. The property is located in the Kingston area near Highway 411 and the Hyundai-SK battery facility. No future operator or end user for the data center has been identified in the state filing.
While the investment would be substantial, the number of permanent jobs would be comparatively small. Project documents estimate the completed facility would employ approximately 50 full-time workers while generating about $2 million annually in local tax revenue.
The project would also require significant utility infrastructure.
The filing estimates the data center would need approximately 150 megawatts of electrical capacity. Developers plan to pursue power through a Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia request-for-proposals process, with additional electrical infrastructure, including a substation, likely required at the site.
Water usage is projected at approximately 50,000 gallons per day, and about three miles of additional water line would be installed. The final length and size of that line would be determined following engineering review with the Bartow County Water Authority.
The proposal still has several hurdles before construction could begin. Reporting from WBHF indicates the project would require rezoning, along with other local approvals involving water, sewer, tree removal, occupancy and business licensing.
The Kingston proposal comes as data center development has become an increasingly prominent issue across Georgia and Northwest Georgia, with communities weighing potentially significant tax revenue against concerns about electricity demand, water use and infrastructure. Neighboring Floyd County recently adopted regulations governing data center development following a temporary moratorium.
If ultimately approved and constructed, the Kingston Technology Hub is projected for completion in 2030.
Walker County Approves $39.9 Million Budget With No Tax Increase
Walker County commissioners have approved a $39.9 million budget for fiscal year 2027 without increasing the county’s tax rate, following several months of discussion over rising expenses and how to balance the spending plan.
The Walker County Board of Commissioners approved the budget during its September 3 meeting. The new fiscal year begins October 1 and runs through September 30, 2027.
The final budget includes funding for three additional firefighters and does not add any other new county positions. County employees will receive a 3% cost-of-living adjustment.
Getting to the final spending plan took several months. When the budget process began this summer, county departments had submitted requests totaling more than $50 million. Chairwoman Angie Teems and county staff worked with department heads to reduce those requests by more than $10 million.
As recently as August, commissioners were still facing a projected $1.9 million gap between revenues and expenses, prompting the board to delay a budget vote while members considered additional changes. Among the pressures on the budget were inflation, state-mandated expenses, a new ambulance service contract, firefighter staffing and employee compensation.
The final $39.9 million spending plan was adopted without a tax increase.
For comparison, Walker County’s FY2026 General Fund budget was approximately $37.25 million.