Midstate

Gallatin City Commissioners approved a 60-day pause on new data center applications, while Lawrence County commissioners tabled a proposed yearlong moratorium due to insufficient zoning rules. The debate over data center development continues in the Midstate as one county considers a broader moratorium and another delays action.

There are growing calls in Tennessee's Midstate for a law requiring landlords to provide air conditioning.

Flash flooding occurred rapidly in Middle Tennessee due to heavy rainfall exceeding ground and drainage system capacities. Saturated ground from prior rains and thunderstorms dropping 2-4 inches+ per hour caused immediate runoff, leading to flooded roadways, homes, and water rescues.

Power outages caused by severe storms on Tuesday night have nearly fully restored by Wednesday morning, with almost all customers regaining electricity. The Midstate region experienced significant outages initially, but service has returned to nearly all areas.

A Flood Watch is in effect from Thursday at 1 p.m. through Sunday at 6 p.m. in Midstate areas due to heavy rain, with up to 3 to 4 inches of rain expected in already saturated regions. Flash flooding is possible in urban and low-lying areas, and residents are urged to avoid driving through flooded roads.

Coffee County Animal Control (CCAC) warns pet owners in Tennessee that pets can die of heat exhaustion during a heat wave if left in direct sunlight or without water and shade. The agency emphasizes that dog houses, especially plastic ones, can act as 'easy bake-ovens' and will issue animal cruelty citations for failing to protect pets. CCAC also urges residents to report animals in danger, citing a past incident where a dog died due to lack of shade and water.