Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Highway Patrol is providing support and specialized services in areas of West Tennessee hit hardest by Sunday night's tornadoes. Special Operations personnel, several all-terrain vehicles and three K-9 units have been sent to the region to assist local law enforcement agencies. The THP has also sent its Mobile Command Center and extra communications equipment that may be needed by local agencies over the next several days. Colonel Mike Walker will fly into the region this morning to oversee THP operations there.

Thirteen Troopers from THP's Jackson District assisted local authorities overnight in hard-hit Dyer and Gibson Counties. Additional Troopers are in both counties today. They will assist with search and recovery operations, traffic control and other duties as needed to support local law enforcement efforts.

Colonel Walker advises people not to go out to see the damage. "People without legitimate business in storm-affected areas should stay out and let law enforcement and other first responders do their work," Walker said. "It's important to keep roads in those areas clear for emergency vehicles." Walker says the THP will maintain an increased presence in the area as long as needed to support local efforts in communities hit hardest by the storms.

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.