Hendersonville, Tennessee – Governor Bill Lee has confirmed that federal help is now in place as Tennessee continues to battle a widespread winter weather emergency that has touched every corner of the state. Last week, President Donald J. Trump approved an Emergency Declaration for Tennessee, a move state leaders say will strengthen response efforts as dangerous winter conditions continue to disrupt daily life across all 95 counties.
The request for federal assistance was submitted to the White House and the Federal Emergency Management Agency on Friday, ahead of the forecasted winter storm. State officials acted early as weather models showed a high risk of severe impacts, including hazardous roads, power disruptions, and threats to public safety.
The Emergency Declaration allows federal assistance to support immediate emergency protective measures while state and local agencies remain fully engaged in response operations. Officials say the declaration improves coordination and helps ensure resources are available where they are needed most.
“As state and local law enforcement, first responders, and road crews continue responding to the winter weather conditions, the Emergency Declaration will support further coordination of resources,” said Gov. Lee. “I’m grateful to President Trump and Secretary Noem for ensuring federal resources are available to support Tennesseans.”
What the Emergency Declaration Means for Tennessee
An Emergency Declaration is designed to provide fast, short-term federal help when an event threatens lives or property and immediate action is required. This type of declaration allows the federal government to step in quickly without the longer process required for major disaster declarations.
Under this declaration, Tennessee may receive federal support for emergency protective measures, including actions taken to save lives and protect critical infrastructure. It also allows for direct federal assistance to state and local governments and improved coordination of federal resources to support lifesaving and life-sustaining efforts.
These tools are especially important during winter weather events, when conditions can change rapidly and local resources can become strained. State and local officials continue to monitor road conditions, utility impacts, and weather forecasts as response efforts remain ongoing.
State Agencies Remain on Full Alert
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency remains fully activated and continues to work closely with local governments, state agencies, and federal partners. TEMA is monitoring forecasts, coordinating planning efforts, and assessing potential needs to make sure help can be deployed quickly as conditions evolve.
“This emergency declaration ensures Tennessee has the support needed to respond swiftly to this winter weather event,” said TEMA Director Patrick C. Sheehan. “We continue working closely with local officials to address immediate needs while monitoring conditions and impacts across the state.”
Officials emphasized that the situation is still developing and that crews across Tennessee remain focused on keeping roads passable, assisting stranded motorists, and responding to emergencies caused by snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. State leaders say the federal declaration adds an important layer of support as Tennesseans work through the challenges brought on by this powerful winter storm.
