COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Recovery efforts are underway in Cocke County after flash flooding swept through the Del Rio community Saturday morning, causing extensive damage to roads, homes and businesses while forcing multiple water rescues.
Cocke County Emergency Management Director Joe Esway said the flooding was not as widespread as Hurricane Helene’s impact in 2024, but for some residents, the destruction was even greater.
“The flooding today was not a county-wide event on a ‘Helene scale’, but for some of the people of Del Rio, the damage and impact was worse,” Esway said in a Facebook post Saturday night.
Esway said he had concerns about the weather forecast before the flooding began but did not anticipate an event of this magnitude.
Significant Damage Reported
The heart of the Del Rio community suffered some of the most severe impacts.
State Route 107 near Blue Mill Road experienced major damage to both homes and sections of the roadway. Officials also reported significant damage along Heartland Ridge Road and Fugate Road, with some areas left impassable following the floodwaters.
Several local businesses were also heavily affected.
Esway said two restaurants considered among the county’s most popular sustained substantial damage. Del Pizza Rio was particularly hard hit after a water line on the property was damaged, leaving the business without the running water needed to begin cleanup operations.
Five Residents Rescued
Emergency responders conducted multiple rescues throughout the day as floodwaters rose rapidly.
The Cocke County Swift Water Rescue Team, assisted by members of the Cocke County SWAT Team using an MRAP vehicle, rescued five residents from three separate locations.
Additional support came from Jefferson City Swift Water Rescue, which was deployed to assist emergency crews and reinforce operations involving the Parrottsville Volunteer Fire Department.
Recovery Efforts Continue
Numerous local and state agencies mobilized to begin repairs and restoration efforts.
The Cocke County Road Department, Tennessee Department of Transportation, Newport Utilities and other agencies worked Saturday to assess damage, restore services and reopen affected roadways.
The Del Rio Volunteer Fire Department coordinated much of the community response, while local businesses including Milanos and Fox and Hounds provided food and beverages to both residents and emergency responders throughout the day.
Despite the significant damage, officials reported no fatalities, no reported injuries and no damage to county-owned assets.
Community Asked to Help
As cleanup efforts continue, Esway is encouraging residents and skilled volunteers to assist affected businesses and property owners.
He specifically requested help from licensed professionals who may be able to repair the damaged water line at Del Pizza Rio so the restaurant can begin recovery operations.
Esway also encouraged anyone visiting the area to bring supplies or volunteer assistance rather than simply observing the damage.
Items such as cleaning supplies, work gloves, trash bags, technical expertise and volunteer labor could help speed recovery efforts for flood victims.
Emergency management officials said they will continue monitoring conditions and coordinating recovery operations in the coming days.
