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Driver dies after floodwaters sweep car away in North Georgia, officials say
Severe mountain flooding triggered at least 100 rescues across North Georgia as emergency crews later found the driver dead.
The Murray County Medical Examiner identified Julie Barrs, 56, of Ellijay as the driver who died Friday after floodwaters swept her vehicle away along Old CCC Camp Road.
Severe mountain flooding hit North Georgia late Thursday into Friday, triggered by heavy runoff after 8 to 10 inches of rain swelled the Toccoa River and Ocoee.
Homeland Security Agency Director Josh Lamb reported that first responders conducted 100 total rescues during the event, with 97 in Fannin County and three in Gilmer County.
After the Toccoa crested at 18 feet, McCaysville Public Safety Director Otis Earley said city buildings and businesses sustained "devastating damage," prompting a 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. curfew.
Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp declared a state of emergency to deploy rescue teams and recovery resources, while The American Red Cross established an emergency shelter at 520 Winding Drive in Blue Ridge.