On September 27, 2024, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee issued Executive Order No. 105 in response to the severe weather and flash flooding that impacted significant portions of the state on September 26 and 27. The storm caused widespread property damage, leading to evacuations and threatening public safety.
The executive order officially declares a major disaster and state of emergency, effective retroactively to 12:01 AM on September 27, 2024. Governor Lee emphasized the substantial damage to property and the ongoing displacement of residents seeking temporary refuge. He also noted that relief efforts are being coordinated by local, state, and federal agencies.
In response to the situation, Tennessee has requested an Emergency Declaration from the President of the United States, acknowledging that the severe weather impacts and the relief efforts are expected to continue for several weeks. The order highlights the collaboration of various agencies to assist those affected by the disaster.