Middle TN agencies aid rescue missions in East TN after devastating floods

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — After several days of severe weather, conditions in East Tennessee have stabilized, allowing for the start of full-scale rescue operations.

Rescue groups from across the state are teaming up to help those who may be caught in the aftermath of severe floods.

Saturday, an aquatic rescue team comprised of the Nashville Fire Department and the Tennessee Highway Patrol Aviation Unit announced they had conducted 24 search and rescue missions in flood-impacted areas.

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Law enforcement agencies in Middle Tennessee have also begun to extend their services out east. Deputies from the Sumner County Sheriff’s Office told News 2 they are sending bottled water to affected areas, while the Sumner County EMS is in the process of sending ambulances to Unicoi County.

Unicoi County has reportedly requested services from the Humphreys County Sheriff’s Office, which managed the aftermath of the deadly Waverly flood in 2021 .

In Dickson County, the Sheriff’s Office will be collecting bottled water from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Dickson Plaza. Once the DSCO trailer has been filled, they will be delivering the bottles to East Tennessee.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has advised civilians to avoid visiting disaster areas until conditions become safer. The agency has asked those who want to get involved with clean-up efforts to wait until guidance is given by local officials.

The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation has opened a hotline to report those who may be missing in the aftermath of the floods. The TBI said callers should be prepared to share as much information in their report as possible, including names, phone numbers, vehicle identification and last known location. The TBI asks callers to refrain from inquiring about personal properties that may have gone missing in the area. To make a missing person report, call 1-800-TBI-FIND .

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