TEMA - Tennessee Emergency Management Agency

01/09/2025 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 01/09/2025 14:57

Gov. Lee, TEMA Issue State of Emergency Ahead of Winter Weather

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Today, at the direction of Governor Bill Lee, TEMA Director Patrick C. Sheehan issued a State of Emergency to provide regulatory relief due to winter weather in Tennessee. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) encourages all Tennesseans to take preparedness steps ahead of a significant winter storm, with impacts expected Thursday evening through Saturday afternoon.

This State of Emergency exempts federal rules and regulations limiting the hours of service for the operator of a commercial motor vehicle providing fuels or an operator of a commercial motor vehicle transporting feed for the livestock or poultry industries, or transportation of animals in those industries. The hours-of-service exemption will be in effect until 11:59 a.m. on Jan. 23, 2025, or during the emergency period, whichever is less.

National Weather Service forecasts show a significant winter storm moving through the state with high confidence of accumulating snowfall and moderate to major travel impacts. Most of the state will receive 3-5" of snowfall, but some areas may receive 6-8" with heavier snow bands.

TEMA continues to work with local, regional, and state partners to support readiness actions and any requests for resources. The state remains at a Level 3, State of Emergency, to be able to respond to the impending winter weather and to continue to respond to Tropical Storm Helene recovery.

SAFETY INFORMATION

Warming Centers

There are warming centers across the state for Tennesseans who may need a warm place to stay. TEMA maintains a map of the shelters operated by local officials. If you need assistance or have questions about shelters for your area, please contact your local Emergency Management Agency.

Generator Safety

Generators can be helpful during a power outage, but they present serious health and safety concerns. Be sure to read the manufacturer's instructions on how to use the generator. Some simple guidelines to follow include:

  • Never use a generator indoors.
  • Place them at least 20 feet from your home and away from windows.
  • Do not hook them up directly to your home's power supply.

PREPAREDNESS INFORMATION

Stay Informed

  • Monitor Official Sources: Stay up to date with current weather information through your local National Weather Service Office and through your local news. Follow TEMA on social media for important guidance and updates and the Tennessee Department of Transportation for road conditions and updates.
  • Sign Up For Alerts: Make sure your weather notifications are turned on on your mobile device. Some counties may offer emergency alerts through the local emergency management agency.
  • Have a Weather Radio: NOAA Weather Radios are another tool that can provide life-saving alerts, even during power outages.

Make a Plan

  • Create a Family Communication Plan: Your family may not be together when a disaster happens. Make sure everyone knows how to get in touch with one another and where to meet if separated.

Build a Kit

  • Essentials: Your emergency kit should include water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
  • For your Car: In case you are stranded, you should also have a kit for your car. You should include: kitty litter, ice scraper, cell phone charger, blanket, flares or reflective triangle.
  • Consider Specific Needs: Your kit should also include supplies that are specific to your daily needs and responsibilities. Don't forget to pack supplies for pets, infants, or elderly family members.

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About the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: TEMA's mission is to coordinate preparedness, response and recovery from man-made, natural and technological hazards in a professional and efficient manner in concert with our stakeholders. Follow TEMA on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and at tn.gov/tema.