Nashville, Tennessee – Tennessee is moving into a new phase of recovery after a destructive winter storm, following federal approval that unlocks critical disaster assistance for impacted communities. Gov. Bill Lee announced that Donald J. Trump has approved Tennessee’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration in response to Winter Storm Fern, which severely affected counties across West and Middle Tennessee.
The approval allows federal resources to flow into the state at a time when many communities are still repairing damage and restoring essential services.
“As Tennesseans begin the recovery process following Winter Storm Fern, I’m grateful to President Trump for granting our Major Disaster Declaration request,” Lee said. “This approval ensures federal resources are available to support Tennesseans, and we are grateful for the Trump Administration’s unwavering support.”
Federal assistance expands to more counties
With the declaration in place, FEMA Public Assistance is now available to eligible government agencies and certain private nonprofit organizations, including houses of worship, in 15 counties. The assistance helps cover qualifying disaster-related costs tied to emergency response and long-term recovery.
Counties newly approved for FEMA Public Assistance include Cheatham, Chester, Clay, Davidson, Hardin, Henderson, Hickman, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Perry, Sumner, Trousdale, Wayne, and Williamson.
This comes in addition to eight counties that had already been approved for Category B Emergency Protective Measures Public Assistance. Those counties are Decatur, Dickson, Hardeman, Lawrence, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, and Wilson.
State officials emphasized that the list may grow. Additional counties could be added if ongoing damage assessments show they meet federal disaster criteria.
“Securing a Major Disaster Declaration is a crucial step in helping communities access the resources they need to support recovery,” said Patrick C. Sheehan, director of the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. “We’re grateful to the President for this support and to the federal, state, and local partnerships that made this possible. We will continue working with FEMA to seek additional assistance, including Individual Assistance, and to ensure Tennesseans have access to the help they need.”
Damage left by Winter Storm Fern
Winter Storm Fern brought a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain, leading to heavy ice buildup across much of the state. The storm caused widespread damage to roads, utilities, and other critical infrastructure, making travel dangerous and recovery slow in many areas.
Electric systems were hit especially hard. At the height of the storm, more than 365,000 customers statewide were without power, leaving families in the dark during extreme winter conditions. Utility crews worked around the clock to restore service, often battling ice-covered lines and downed trees.
The storm has also had a tragic human toll. Winter Storm Fern has claimed 29 lives, underscoring the seriousness of the event and the long road to recovery that remains for many families.
Under the declaration, eligible entities can apply for reimbursement through FEMA’s Public Assistance program for approved disaster-related expenses. Officials said information on eligible categories and the application process is available through FEMA.
State leaders said the declaration represents a key step forward, but emphasized that recovery work is ongoing as Tennessee communities continue to rebuild from one of the state’s most damaging winter storms in recent years.
