Gov. Lee Requests Federal Relief for February Ice Storm

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee is asking for a Major Disaster Declaration today from President Joe Biden to assist seven counties in their recovery from the severe winter storm that impacted the west and middle regions of the state on Feb. 3, and Feb. 4, 2022.

“Our goal in seeking this federal assistance is to ease the unexpected financial burden the emergency has left behind in these communities,” Gov. Lee said. 

The Major Disaster Declaration, if granted, would make the federal Public Assistance Program available to local jurisdictions in Crockett, Fayette, Haywood, Lauderdale, Shelby, Tipton, and Weakley counties.

The Public Assistance program will reimburse jurisdictions, and certain private, non-profit organizations, for their work to remove debris, restore utilities, and respond to the emergency.

In Shelby County alone, Memphis Light, Gas, and Water estimates the ice storm caused $12 million in damage to the utility’s electric power system.

More information about the federal Public Assistance program is available at fema.gov/assistance/public.

Gov. Lee indicated he may request more counties to be included in the Major Disaster Declaration depending on further reviews of damage assessments.

Tennessee experienced dual weather hazards on Feb. 3, and Feb. 4, 2022, as heavy rainfall in West and Middle Tennessee turned to freezing rain and ice accumulations.  The ice storm claimed one life in Haywood County, disrupted travel, downed trees and powerlines, and cut off power for tens of thousands of Tennesseans.

About the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency: TEMA’s mission is to coordinate preparedness, response and
recovery from man-made, natural and technological hazards in a professional and
efficient manner in concert with our stakeholders. Follow TEMA on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and, at www.tn.gov/tema.