NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has declared a state of emergency.
The agency had given a press release in advance of severe weather predicted for the mid-state, sharing their strategy for how they’re planning on keeping Tennesseans safe. Krissy Hurley, the warning coordination meteorologist for the National Weather Service’s Nashville office encouraged those across the state to have a way to stay alert.
TEMA said Gov. Bill Lee requested the emergency declaration for the Volunteer State, which includes federal assistance in the form of debris removal help from FEMA, emergency protective measures and direct federal assistance.
“We want everyone to have a way to make sure that they have numerous ways to get the latest weather information — including tornado warnings and flash flood warnings,” Hurley said.
Alex Pellom, TEMA’s Chief of Staff, said agencies across the state had prepared in advance of the forecast. The Tennessee Department of Transportation had helped with drain clearing ahead of heavy predicted rainfall. Communities like Clarksville and Waverly had also worked in advance of the weather, working to distribute sandbags and keep community members informed about plans.
“Unfortunately, Tennessee has become very resilient in disaster recovery,” Pellom said. “Our folks have seen a quagmire, if you will, of disasters within the last five years. I would tell folks as you continue to respond and recover, have your notifications [on and] stay in touch with your local emergency management offices.”