Damage from strong tornadoes and straight-line winds has prompted a “major” disaster declaration — and additional federal resources — for 10 Tennessee counties.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency will help local governments and affected individuals in Cannon, Hardeman, Hardin, Haywood, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Rutherford, Tipton and Wayne counties.
Storm surveyors have now confirmed that 12 tornadoes — seven in West Tennessee and five in Middle Tennessee — touched down as part of a multi-state outbreak. In Tennessee, the storm killed 15 people and damaged more than 500 structures.
“As Tennessee continues to rebuild, we remain focused on ensuring critical resources are made available to each impacted community across our state,” Gov. Bill Lee wrote in a statement.
How to apply
The aid can include grants for temporary housing and home repairs and low-cost loans for uninsured property losses, among other types of help.
Those impacted can begin applying for assistance by registering online at DisasterAssistance.gov or by calling 1-800-621- 3362 between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m. Central.
Federal funding is also available for local governments and some nonprofit organizations for debris removal and emergency protective measures.
Since 2019, Tennessee has received at least 11 weather-related disaster declarations. A similar tornado outbreak across 13 counties in December 2021 led to $1.2 million in individual assistance for 194 applicants.
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