MCCAYSVILLE, GA — Gov. Brian Kemp says state agencies are working alongside local emergency crews as catastrophic flooding continues to impact northwest Georgia, prompting rescues, road closures and a state of emergency in McCaysville.

The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is coordinating the response, with assistance from the Georgia Department of Public Safety and the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

State officials are using boats and aircraft to support rescue and recovery operations, while emergency responders from surrounding counties and Tennessee are also helping in affected communities.

“This is an ongoing flash flood emergency, and if you are in the impacted area, seek higher ground and listen to your local emergency officials,” Kemp said.

McCaysville remains under a local state of emergency after heavy rainfall caused widespread flooding throughout the community.

McCaysville Police Chief Michael Earley said a 90-year-old woman was stranded on her countertop while waiting for rescuers to reach her.

Earley also reported that a propane tank caught fire in McCaysville, with crews working to put out the flames.

The National Weather Service extended the flash flood emergency for McCaysville until 11 a.m. Thursday.

The McCaysville Water System is also under a boil water advisory until further notice, according to county emergency management officials.

Elsewhere in Fannin County, floodwaters have entered multiple homes, leaving some properties completely surrounded by water.

An emergency shelter opened Thursday morning at the Fannin County Recreation Center on Tom Boyd Road in Blue Ridge for residents affected by the flooding.

The severe weather has also forced schools in Fannin and Gilmer counties to close Thursday.

Emergency officials continue to urge residents in affected areas to follow safety instructions and avoid dangerous floodwaters.