TEMA Continues Coordinating Support Following Severe Storm Impacts in Shelby County
The Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) continues to coordinate with Shelby County, the City of Memphis, state agencies, federal partners, and nonprofit organizations following severe weather that impacted Shelby County on Saturday, Aug. 22, 2026.
The storm system moved through the area as a severe bow echo, a line of fast-moving severe weather capable of producing damaging straight-line winds. In Shelby County, the storm produced destructive winds exceeding 70 to 80 miles per hour, downing trees and power lines and leaving more than 134,000 customers without power.
At the request of Shelby County, TEMA deployed a district coordinator to the area on Sunday, Aug. 23, to support local officials with damage assessments and coordination as the impacts of the storm continued to unfold. TEMA remains in close contact with county and city emergency management agencies and continues to work with partners to assess damages and identify any additional needs. At this time, there are no outstanding requests from Shelby County to the state.
“Disasters and severe weather events are disruptive for communities, families, and local governments,” said TEMA Commissioner Patrick C. Sheehan. “TEMA will continue supporting Shelby County and the City of Memphis as they assess damages, coordinate resources, and help residents navigate the recovery process.”
Shelby County has opened cooling centers for residents who remain without power and need a safe, cool place to stay. Cooling center locations, hours, and additional details are available on TEMA’s interactive shelter map found on our website. Residents should check the notes for each cooling center location before traveling, as hours and services may vary.
TEMA and local partners continue to assess the full extent of storm impacts to determine what types of federal assistance may be available. FEMA Individual Assistance and Public Assistance each have their own federal criteria, and final eligibility can only be evaluated once assessments are complete. At this stage, we are still gathering information and have not reached a determination. As we learn more, TEMA will provide updates to ensure local officials and residents have accurate, timely information.
Community Assistance and Recovery Resources
Tennesseans who continue to face challenges related to food loss, power outages, or storm-related debris have several local and statewide resources available to support immediate unmet needs.
Community Compass
Community Compass is Tennessee’s statewide navigation tool that helps residents identify nearby programs offering food assistance, housing support, health services, and other community resources. Residents can search for help on their website at https://communitycompass.tn.gov.
Crisis Cleanup
Crisis Cleanup has been activated to help residents request volunteer assistance with free private property cleanup, including debris and fallen trees. To request assistance, survivors should call the Crisis Cleanup Hotline at (901) 430‑0995.
United Way of the Mid-South (2-1-1)
Residents seeking help with food, basic needs, or referrals to community organizations can contact 2‑1‑1 for centralized assistance.
• Dial 2‑1‑1
• If a mobile provider does not connect to 2‑1‑1, call 901‑415‑2790
• Online: https://uwmidsouth.org/get-help-now/
Memphis Cares Food Assistance
Memphis households that experienced more than 24 hours without power may be eligible for food support provided through the City of Memphis, Memphis City Council, and United Way of the Mid‑South. To learn more, residents should call the Memphis Cares Line at 844‑444‑4211. Residents should be prepared to provide their home address when calling.
These services are available now to help bridge gaps as assessments continue and as local, state, and nonprofit partners work together to identify additional needs.
Residents should continue to follow guidance from Shelby County Emergency Management, the City of Memphis, and MLGW for local updates, safety information, and restoration timelines.