TBA Law Blog


Posted by: Stacey Shrader Joslin on Apr 3, 2025

President Donald Trump approved a federal disaster declaration for all counties in the state of Tennessee following severe storms, straight-line winds, tornadoes and flooding that began April 2. The action authorizes the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to coordinate all disaster relief efforts to save lives; protect property, public health and safety; and lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. No individual assistance is authorized at this point. News reports indicate that a suspected tornado hit Selmer in West Tennessee early today. At least four people are dead in the state, Tennessee Lookout reports, including one each in Carroll, Fayette, McNairy and Obion counties. The Commercial Appeal has images from hard-hit Selmer.