At least six people have been reported dead after a series of deadly tornadoes tore through Tennessee on Saturday. The storms caused significant devastation and forced many residents to take shelter as strong winds and heavy rain swept through the state.
According to reports, at least 15 tornadoes touched down in the region, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Two adults and a child were among the casualties in Clarksville, Tennessee, where several homes were destroyed. Nashville’s Emergency Operation Center reported three more deaths and more than 20 injuries.
Tennessee Governor Bill Lee expressed his condolences in a statement, saying, “This is devastating news and our hearts are broken for the families of those who lost loved ones.” He also urged residents to follow guidance from local and state officials as the dangerous weather continued.
Several areas in four states – Arkansas, Kentucky, Mississippi, and Tennessee – were under a tornado watch as the storms began on Saturday. Residents were warned to take shelter as reports of severe and damaging weather started to pour in.
WHOA!!! TDOT camera captures a tornado knocking out power stations. This was taken from the I-65 and Vietnam Vets Blvd in Rivergate/Goodlettsville. pic.twitter.com/xmRsskj6NP
— FoxNashville (@FOXNashville) December 9, 2023
In Dresden, Tennessee, weather expert Reed Timmer issued a warning for residents in the path of a large, destructive tornado. “Take cover immediately,” Timmer urged. “This is a particularly dangerous situation with a large, damaging tornado heading toward town any minute.”
Some residents were lucky enough to take shelter in a nearby hotel’s parking garage as the storms raged on. Other reports state that residents were forced to seek shelter wherever they could, highlighting the urgency and severity of the situation.
As the storm continued, the National Weather Service issued an alert for more rain and thunderstorms across the south and east coast on Sunday. Some areas are expected to receive up to three inches of rain, which could further complicate the situation for residents already dealing with the aftermath of the tornadoes.
Officials are warning people to stay away from impacted areas to avoid interfering with first responders and utility crews. The city of Nashville has reported 22 collapsed structures, with several others sustaining major damage. Mayor Freddie O’Connell assured residents that while the days and weeks ahead may be challenging, the city will respond to the devastation.
The Montgomery County officials have declared this a search and rescue operation and are asking the public to refrain from interfering with their efforts. With more severe weather on the horizon, officials are urging residents to stay informed and adhere to safety protocols to ensure their well-being. As the community comes together to recover from this tragedy, residents of Tennessee are bracing for further impact as the storms continue their path of destruction.
