COCKE COUNTY, Tenn. — The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency spoke Monday after historic flooding swept through many parts of the state after Hurricane Helene. According to the agency, disaster recovery will take years — potentially even decades.
More than 100 people in the state are still considered missing, with TEMA officially reporting three deaths. Patrick Sheehan, the director of TEMA, said the number will surely rise.
There are three main concerns in the aftermath of the widespread flooding. TEMA said those concerns are communication, blocked roadways and a lack of water. Since the storm's arrival, many have also questioned why Governor Bill Lee only requested help on Friday, after the storm had hit.
READ MORE ► At least 4 dead, 2 critical water systems destroyed in Greene and Cocke counties after catastrophic floods
Sheehan said he is taking the blame.
"I advised the governor on those things. Our forecast did not call for it. We, TEMA, the state of Tennessee government, were talking about the dangers of this flooding to individuals living along those rivers, and our EOC was activated, and we had people on the ground as the emergency was unfolding already," Sheehan said. "So, if there's any concern around that, that is me."
Sheehan said 13 public water systems have reported problems, but both Greeneville and Newport have reported destroyed water intakes. Newport Utilities reported an emergency after the storm, and Cocke County leaders issued a boil water advisory.
READ MORE ► Roads to Newport reopened in Cocke County, crews working to restore critical water systems
TEMA is also asking for people not to drive to flood-impacted areas unless they are working with certified relief organizations. They said people wanting to help should check with local organizations first to determine what the greatest needs are and to drop donations off at designated sites. Sheehan said donating money will always be the best way people can help in the short and long term.
