NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Governor Bill Lee today announced the approval of his request for an Expedited Major Disaster Declaration, unlocking federal recovery assistance for eight counties severely impacted by recent flooding. The declaration will provide much-needed resources as these communities begin the long process of rebuilding.
“State and local officials, first responders, and volunteers continue to provide critical support to impacted Tennessee communities following significant flood damage,” said Gov. Lee. “As Tennesseans begin the rebuilding process, I thank our federal partners for granting resources to further our severe weather response and recovery in Northeast Tennessee.”
The counties included in the declaration are Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington. Damage assessments are still ongoing, with additional requests for federal assistance expected as more information becomes available.
This disaster declaration will allow access to FEMA’s Public Assistance (PA) Emergency Work Categories A and B, Individual Assistance (IA), Hazard Mitigation Grant, and Direct Federal Assistance programs. These resources will be vital in addressing both immediate and long-term recovery needs.
Patrick C. Sheehan, Director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), emphasized the importance of this federal support. “The devastation caused by this disaster is tragic,” Sheehan said. “The Expedited Major Disaster Declaration is a crucial first step in providing survivors with essential resources. Our focus remains on a survivor-centered response, ensuring that the recovery process is as smooth and supportive as possible for those impacted.”
Gov. Lee and Director Sheehan also shared important information for those affected by the disaster:
- Residents in the declared counties can now apply for direct assistance through FEMA’s Individual Assistance program online or by phone at 1-800-621-3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. CDT, with multilingual operators available.
- Eligible individuals may receive help with rental assistance, home repair, and personal property replacement, as well as coverage for other uninsured or underinsured disaster-related losses.
- Additional details on FEMA’s Individual Assistance program can be found on their website.
Northeast Tennessee began experiencing heavy rainfall on September 26, which led to widespread flooding. As of October 2, the floods have claimed nine lives and caused extensive damage across the region. Gov. Lee, alongside state and local officials, remains committed to providing continuous support as recovery efforts unfold. For the latest updates and resources, survivors can visit the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) website.
