‘Tennesseans are survivors’ | Gov. Lee surveys storm damage in Greeneville

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — Tennessee Governor Bill Lee visited Trinity United Methodist Church, located in one of the Greeneville communities that was impacted by weather from Hurricane Helene, on Thursday.

Lee said he spoke with various officials and response teams during his trip to Greeneville.

“We also know it’s not just the response from TEMA, from FEMA and local EMA, it’s the response of the people and the neighbors, the community, the church and the volunteers,” Lee said.

“It’s inspiring to see hope intersect with tragedy, and the outcome is a good outcome for this community,” Lee said. “There’s a lot of work to do, there’s a lot of challenges here. We have a lot of effort being made.”

Thursday makes Lee’s third visit to the region since severe weather flooding swept through the area on Sept. 27.

Lee said the state’s response is survivor-centric. The focus is on ensuring everyone impacted finds their way to the supplies and support they need to move forward.

“Whether it’s a loss of a family member, a loss home, the loss of water, the loss of employment… they’re survivors,” Lee said. “Tennesseans are survivors.”

Lee’s full comments can be viewed above.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) stated in its latest update on Wednesday night that 11 flood-related deaths had been confirmed so far after Hurricane Helene tore through the region.

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