Flooding claims first weather-related fatality in Cocke County since Hurricane Helene, Tennessee

A 64-year-old woman was reported dead after being swept away by floodwaters near her home in Cocke County on May 28. The fatality was confirmed by Sheriff CJ Ball.

The victim was reportedly the 24th weather-related fatality in East Tennessee over the past 10 years and the first in Cocke County since Hurricane Helene in 2024.

Multiple rescues were conducted across the county after 76 to 127 mm (3 to 5 inches) of rain fell during the morning of May 28.

“A lot of people are able to go back to their families’ homes because they’re from the area, but people who aren’t from the area and are camping don’t have a place to go,” Red Cross Community Disaster Program Manager Chase Filip said.

“The quicker they get done, the safer it is for the crew and the community, with less risk of loss of life and property,” said Chief Shelton of the Tusculum Volunteer Fire Department.

The Red Cross has established an emergency shelter at Parrottsville Elementary School for residents displaced by the flooding. Although floodwaters are beginning to recede, support services will remain available.

References:

¹ East Tennessee’s first flood fatality since Helene occurs during Cocke County weather event – WFHG – May 28, 2026

² Woman dead in Cocke County flooding, sheriff’s office says – WVLT 8 – May 28, 2026

Rishav Kothari

Rishav Kothari is Editor-in-Chief of The Watchers, where he runs the newsroom and covers earthquakes, volcanoes, severe weather and space weather.

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