Photo Credit: Tennessee Emergency Managment Agency

Photo Credit: Tennessee Emergency Managment Agency

Hurricane Helene - Tennessee Flood Relief: Stand with Us in Prayer and Support for Our Devastated Communities

The recent flooding in Northeast Tennessee has brought unimaginable hardship to Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hawkins, Johnson, Unicoi, and Washington counties. As we work to coordinate relief efforts at the state level, we invite you to join us in both prayer and action to help those affected. Your support is crucial as we begin the long journey of recovery and rebuilding.

Together, we can make a difference.

In addition to our local efforts, we are collaborating with Habitat for Humanity International and other states to share resources and provide mutual support. We will also be coordinating opportunities for our affiliates to come together as we plan for long-term recovery and rebuilding.

It's important to remember that Habitat is not a first responder. First responders are focused on immediate needs—locating survivors, ensuring safety, and providing temporary shelter, food, and water. Once these urgent needs are met, we can begin the process of planning for the long-term recovery. Flooding presents unique challenges, as everything must dry out before rebuilding can begin, which means the road to recovery will be long and difficult.

You can review resources - including open shelters, flash reports, news releases, updates related to the flooding event, and recovery updates at tn.gov/tema.

Here is a summary of the current situation:

  • Missing Persons Hotline: The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) has set up a hotline (1-800-TBI-FIND) for reporting missing individuals in the affected areas.

  • Infrastructure Impact: Water and wastewater systems have been compromised in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, and Unicoi counties. Boil water advisories are in effect for some areas.

  • FEMA Assistance: FEMA has authorized Public Assistance (Category B) for emergency protective measures in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Hamblen, Johnson, Unicoi, Hawkins, and Washington counties, covering 75% of the costs through federal funding.

  • Governor's Action: Governor Bill Lee has declared a State of Emergency through Executive Order 105 to provide support to those affected.

  • Emergency Operations: The State Emergency Operations Center is actively coordinating resources, with several state departments assisting local jurisdictions.

  • Power & Utilities: Power outages and water utility issues persist in Carter, Cocke, Greene, Johnson, and Unicoi counties, with operational challenges continuing in several areas.

We are grateful for your continued support and prayers as we embark on this long journey of recovery and rebuilding. Together, we will rise stronger.

Photo credit: TN Emergency Management Agency