India, Aug. 13 -- Southern Tennessee experienced heavy downpours that swiftly overloaded drainage systems, forcing the closing of a key interstate and scores of water rescues Tuesday night.

The National Weather Service (NWS) said that Tuesday was the second-wettest day on record in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with 6.41 inches of rain pouring on the city.

The mayor of Hamilton County, Tennessee announced a State of Emergency after floodwaters swamped numerous roadways and search and rescue teams performed water rescues, Fox Weather reported.

As water levels surged quickly, the Chattanooga Fire Department reported carrying out multiple rescues, including rescuing stranded drivers from their vehicles and helping persons trapped inside homes....