The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency continues to monitor Hurricane Helene as we coordinate with our state and local partners ahead of expected impacts. The entire state is being impacted by extreme winter weather. We encourage all Tennesseans to take steps now to stay informed, make a plan, have an emergency kit, and secure your home.

CURRENT SITUATION

Slow moving, heavy rainfall along a boundary in East Tennessee yesterday caused flooding and the issuance of several flood watches and warnings by the National Weather Service. This rain is not associated with Hurricane Helene but did cause the evacuation and sheltering of several households in Mountain City overnight. Rain will continue to impact this area tonight into Friday morning. Primary concerns for this area are continued flooding and widespread power outages due to downed trees.

Hurricane Helene has strengthened into a Category 3 hurricane and is currently impacting the southeastern U.S. Once Helene makes landfall, it will rapidly travel to Tennessee with impacts beginning this evening to Friday morning and lasting throughout the weekend. Impacts may include significant rainfall, widespread power outages, and damaging winds.

In response to the hurricane, TEMA deployed a specialized Swiftwater Rescue Team, consisting of 17 personnel
from Nashville Fire, Franklin Fire, and the Williamson County Emergency Management Agency, to Florida under the Emergency Management Assistance Compact. The team will assist with water rescues and emergency services in the Pensacola area.

TEMA continues to monitor Hurricane Helene, evaluate potential impacts to Tennessee, and stands ready to respond.

PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION

As Hurricane Helene approaches landfall, Tennesseans can take steps to protect themselves, their families, and their property. The steps below are to be used as a starting place when preparing for a disaster such as Hurricane Helene.

Stay Informed

• Monitor Official Sources: Stay up to date with current weather information through your local National Weather Service Office and through your local news. Follow TEMA on social media for important guidance and updates.

• Sign Up For Alerts: Make sure your weather notifications are turned on on your mobile device. Some counties may offer emergency alerts through the local emergency management agency.

• Have a Weather Radio: NOAA Weather Radios are another tool that can provide life-saving alerts, even during power outages.

Make a Plan

• Create a Family Communication Plan: Your family may not be together when a disaster happens. Make sure everyone knows how to get in touch with one another and where to meet if separated.

Build a Kit

• Essentials: Your emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.

• Consider Specific Needs: Your kit should also include supplies that are specific to your daily needs and responsibilities. Don't forget to pack supplies for pets, infants, or elderly family members.

Secure Your Home

• Clear Loose Items: Secure outdoor furniture, trash bins, and other items that could become hazardous in strong winds.

PROTECTIVE ACTIONS/KEY MESSAGES

• Do not attempt to cross flooded roads or walkways. Turn around, don't drown.

• Take photos of any damages and us caution when handling debris.

• Continue to monitor for updated weather information from reliable sources.

• Contact your local emergency management agency if you need immediate assistance.

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