Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA)

The Tennessee Emergency Management Authority is responsible for preparedness, response, mitigation & recovery from disasters. Please dial 9-1-1 in an emergency.

[Readygov @Readygov]

Heavy rain & snow could make travel difficult in parts of the country over the next few days. Before you grab your keys, check the forecast & road conditions. Pack an emergency kit with warm clothes, blankets & a flashlight. If a winter storm hits, delay your trip if possible.

[Gov. Bill Lee @GovBillLee]

This afternoon, I joined @TennesseeEMA & local officials to survey flood damage in Polk County.

We’re working with the General Assembly & local government officials to make Governor’s Response and Recovery Fund resources available as quickly as possible to support recovery efforts.

Our prayers remain with the families & businesses impacted, & we’re grateful to first responders, local leaders & volunteers for their swift action.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

If you live or own a business in Polk County, our latest update explains what the flood damage assessments mean for recovery and where to turn if you still need help.

Read the full news release at https://t.co/Y9wrMg3TEe.

[Readygov @Readygov]

East Coast: Is your home ready for colder temps later this week?
✅ Seal drafts around windows & doors.
✅ Install smoke alarms & carbon monoxide detectors with battery backups.
✅ Gather supplies in case you need to stay home for several days.
More tips: https://t.co/SVVY9u2sUL

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 10, 2026 | 10:00 a.m. CT): Local and state damage assessments have concluded. Yesterday, the state requested that federal partners come to Copperhill to conduct Joint Preliminary Damage Assessments.

These assessments bring together local, state and federal partners. Federal partners will review and validate the damage information the locals have collected. This is one step in the process. Federal assistance has additional requirements, and completing these assessments does not guarantee assistance.

If you need help or are looking for a resource, please report your need to the Polk County Emergency Management Agency. Sharing this information helps officials understand where needs remain.

You can also contact the American Red Cross. Representatives are in the community, and residents can call 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767). The Red Cross can help connect you with resources and share information about needs with other nonprofit organizations.

If you still need help, please keep reaching out. We want to understand what needs remain so we can work with our partners to respond.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 8, 2026 | 9:45 a.m. CT): Many Polk County residents are asking when federal disaster assistance may become available. At this time, Tennessee remains in the local and state damage assessment phase.

What should you do right now:

⚠️ If your home, business, or property was damaged, start by reporting it to Polk County Emergency Management Agency.

Damage reports help officials document the full impact of the flooding and determine what assistance may be available. Reporting damage does not guarantee financial assistance, but it is an important part of the process.

☎️ Contact the American Red Cross of Tennessee by connecting with representatives in Polk County or calling 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

The American Red Cross and other nonprofit organizations may be able to connect you with immediate assistance and resources. Contacting these organizations also helps emergency managers understand where needs are greatest and where additional support should be directed.

The graphic below outlines the steps involved in the disaster declaration process. We are currently at the Local and State Response/Assessment stage.

TEMA, Polk County Emergency Management Agency, and nonprofit organizations from across the region are continuing to document damage and coordinate support for affected communities.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 7, 2026 | 1:45 p.m. CT): Many homeowners and business owners have begun the cleanup process. If you place debris along the right of way, separate it into piles by type to help ensure it can be properly collected. Do not block roadways, and do not place debris near or on trees, utility poles or other structures.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 7, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. CT): TEMA has created a webpage with information about resources available to survivors in Polk County and ways individuals can help. This may not be a complete list, so if you know of additional resources or opportunities to help, please share them with us.

TEMA Polk County Flooding Webpage: https://t.co/IAMbXPIfFL

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 6, 2026 | 4:45 p.m. CT): Cleanup and debris removal efforts are beginning in affected areas in Polk County. Residents should not enter damaged or debris-filled areas unless it is safe to do so. Before cleanup efforts begin, residents should take photographs and document damage and debris for insurance and recovery purposes.

Residents should follow debris separation guidelines and separate materials as directed to ensure debris is properly collected. Any additional information about debris removal and pickup will be provided by local officials.

Read Flash Report #2: https://t.co/chdAfzEIOg

Photo Credit: Track 29 Photography

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 5, 2026 | 4:15 p.m. CT): Residents in the Copperhill area should be aware that a mandatory curfew is in effect in the affected flood areas from 6 p.m. on November 5 through 6 a.m. on November 6.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 5, 2026 | 1:30 PM CT) TEMA’s latest Polk County flooding flash report includes updates on response efforts, 68 rescues, emergency shelter and supply locations, water conservation and road safety guidance.

Read the full report and stay informed: https://t.co/MYYN5aBFhS

Stay #ReadyTN.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

Floodwaters remain dangerous in Polk County.

⚠️ Avoid flooded roads and bridges.
🚧 Never drive around barricades.
📢 Follow local officials for evacuation guidance and road closures.

Turn Around, Don’t Drown. Stay #ReadyTN.

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

As Polk County, TN, responds to severe flooding, here’s how you can help.

To support those impacted, text COPPERHILL to 41444 to give through United Way of the Ocoee Region (@unitedwayocoee).

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

Emergency shelters are open for individuals and families impacted by flooding in Polk County and the Copper Basin area.

For current shelter locations and availability, visit TEMA’s interactive shelter map: https://t.co/ZCSI2UZG1d

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

Tennessee continues to respond to severe flooding in Polk County. TEMA is working alongside state and local partners to support ongoing efforts.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and continue following guidance from local officials. #ReadyTN

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 5, 2026 | 11:00am CT): Emergency shelters are open for individuals and families impacted by severe flash flooding in Polk County and the Copper Basin area.

If you need a safe place to stay, follow local emergency guidance and avoid flooded roads and closed bridges.

For current shelter locations and availability, view TEMA’s interactive shelter map: https://t.co/D02Zji37vJ

[Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) @TennesseeEMA]

(November 5, 2026 | 8:25 a.m. CT): The Tennessee State Emergency Operations Center has been activated to a Level 4 due to the flooding that has occurred in Polk County.

At this time, the flooding is expected to remain through this evening. Please avoid flooded roads and follow all local official guidance.

[NWS Memphis @NWSMemphis]

Here's the latest update on weekend rain chances and timing. Scattered showers will be in the area on Halloween evening. Not everyone will experience rainfall Saturday evening. Winds will also remain for those carrying umbrellas.