Hagerty, TN Delegation Urge Swift Approval of Major Disaster Declaration Requests After Severe Weather Impacts West Tennessee

WASHINGTON-On Friday, United States Senator Bill Hagerty (R-TN) joined the Tennessee delegation in sending a letter to President Donald Trump urging his swift approval of Governor Bill Lee's request for a Major Disaster Declaration following severe storms that affected areas of West Tennessee.

Co-signers of the letter include Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), along with Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-TN-01), Tim Burchett (R-TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (R-TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (R-TN-04), Matt Van Epps (R-TN-07), David Kustoff (R-TN-08), and Steve Cohen (D-TN-09).

A copy of the letter can be found here and below.

Dear Mr. President:

We write to urge swift approval of Governor Bill Lee's request for a major disaster declaration pursuant to the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act due to severe weather occurring on August 22, 2026.

On August 22, a severe thunderstorm moved through the Mid-South and into West Tennessee, producing widespread damaging straight-line winds. Severe weather, including prolific straight-line winds and hail, caused significant damage to the power grid, particularly in Shelby County. The National Weather Service reported that more than 130,000 customers were without power, in addition to extensive tree damage, downed power lines, and road closures. Peak wind speeds were estimated between 60 and 80 miles per hour, with the storm lasting approximately 45 minutes in Shelby County and 90 minutes across the entire affected area. Ongoing extreme heat following the storm also posed serious risks to vulnerable residents, including seniors, young children, people with disabilities, low-income households, and those without access to cooling.

To respond to this disaster, Governor Lee is specifically requesting a Major Disaster Declaration for Individual Assistance and Public Assistance for Shelby County and Hazard Mitigation statewide. The State is also requesting direct Federal assistance for debris management support, including technical monitoring and mentoring to affected areas. On behalf of the State of Tennessee, we urge you to approve this request as soon as possible.

Our offices can provide you with any additional information you need.

Sincerely,

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