Governor Bill Lee has made a formal request to President Joe Biden for a Major Disaster Declaration in the aftermath of the severe weather and tornadoes that hit Tennessee on May 8-9, 2024. The declaration is intended to provide federal disaster assistance to the affected counties, including Rutherford County, in order to aid in the recovery efforts and offer economic relief to those in need.
According to Governor Lee, the federal disaster assistance will provide crucial economic relief and resources to aid in the recovery of our communities and fellow Tennesseans from the damages caused by the storms.
Residents of Cannon, Giles, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, and Sumner counties can receive federal aid through two crucial programs: Individual Assistance and Public Assistance. If the request is approved, affected individuals can apply for Individual Assistance, which can provide up to $42,500 for rental assistance, home repairs, and personal property replacement. However, it’s important to note that while this program aims to assist survivors, it may not cover all losses.
Residents of Cannon, Cheatham, Giles, Hamilton, Jackson, Macon, Maury, Montgomery, Polk, Smith, Sumner, and Warren counties can avail themselves of the Federal Public Assistance program. This program offers reimbursement for emergency work and uninsured infrastructure repair, including debris removal and utilities restoration.
During the recent severe weather event, Tennessee witnessed ten confirmed tornadoes, damaging hail, and widespread winds that caused significant disruptions. The storms also resulted in flash flooding and riverine flooding, which disrupted travel and left tens of thousands without power. Sadly, Maury County witnessed three fatalities, and the storms caused the downing of numerous trees and power lines.
Although FEMA’s programs exclude agricultural and business losses, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is currently collaborating with federal agencies to investigate further aid options for these types of damages.
