NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The death toll from severe weather in Tennessee has risen to five, as state officials continue to manage the widespread crisis. During a media briefing Thursday evening, Patrick Sheehan, director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), confirmed the tragic loss of life, with victims reported in Carroll, McNairy, Obion, and Fayette counties. The severity of the situation has prompted heightened warnings and a call for vigilance across the state.
Governor Bill Lee declared a state of emergency on Wednesday in response to the continuing storm threat, a declaration that was approved by President Donald Trump on Thursday. In the briefing, Lee expressed gratitude for the federal support and emphasized the need for citizens to stay alert. “There’s continued danger for Tennesseans,” Governor Lee warned, urging residents not to let their guard down as the storm system continues to impact the region through the weekend. “The main message tonight is don’t stop watching the weather. Don’t stop preparing yourself. Have a plan.”
TEMA director Patrick Sheehan echoed Lee’s message, stressing the importance of taking weather warnings seriously. “Do not take the warnings less seriously as we continue through this storm,” Sheehan advised. “We’re still in a very dangerous situation.” Sheehan outlined ongoing efforts to manage the crisis, including the deployment of Swiftwater Rescue teams, who are on standby to respond to emergencies, and the Tennessee Department of Transportation’s efforts to assist with debris removal.
TEMA has also reached out to neighboring states for additional support, and Sheehan reminded citizens that volunteers should not self-deploy, but instead seek guidance from local emergency management agencies on how best to assist.
The situation remains fluid, with authorities preparing for the possibility of more casualties. “We do have the sense that there will be more,” Sheehan remarked, noting that the reporting of fatalities is being handled carefully and methodically. As of now, one death has been reported in Carroll, McNairy, and Obion counties, and two fatalities have been confirmed in Fayette County.
Kenneth Caruthers, with the Nashville Office of Emergency Management, shared details of the city’s preparedness efforts. “We started preparing two or three days ago — making sure all of our equipment was ready and making sure everything was fueled up,” Caruthers said. “It’s a team effort all the way around.” Caruthers also noted that additional specialty companies had been brought in to assist with specific tasks, while other teams remain on standby for further support.
As the storm continues, the state’s emergency teams remain focused on ensuring the safety of Tennesseans and coordinating relief efforts. Despite the ongoing threat, officials are urging residents to stay informed, stay safe, and rely on official channels for updates and instructions.
For those seeking to receive weather alerts, officials encourage residents to sign up for local emergency notifications and stay tuned to trusted news sources throughout the duration of the storm.
