The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency released the following statement regarding assistance for recovery from the recent major winter storm:
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) is providing guidance on federal disaster recovery programs currently supporting communities impacted by Winter Storm Fern.
FEMA Public Assistance Approved
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has approved FEMA Public Assistance (PA) to support eligible local governments and certain private nonprofit organizations with disaster-related response and recovery costs. Public Assistance helps cover eligible expenses associated with emergency work and the repair or replacement of damaged public infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, utilities, and public buildings.
Fifteen counties have been approved for full FEMA PA: Cheatham, Chester, Clay, Davidson, Hardin, Henderson, Hickman, Lewis, Macon, McNairy, Perry, Sumner, Trousdale, Wayne, and Williamson.
Eight counties have been approved for FEMA PA Category B (Emergency Protective Measures): Decatur, Dickson, Hardeman, Lawrence, Maury, Robertson, Rutherford, and Wilson.
Category B (Emergency Protective Measures) includes eligible actions taken to save lives, protect public health and safety, and prevent additional damage. Category B approval does not automatically include other categories of Public Assistance related to permanent repairs.
Individual Assistance Still Under Federal Review
FEMA Individual Assistance (IA), which may provide direct support to eligible individuals and households for certain uninsured or underinsured disaster-related needs, remains under federal review at this time.
“Under federal review” means the state has submitted required information and documentation for FEMA’s evaluation of household impacts and unmet needs. No final determination has been issued yet. If IA is approved, FEMA will announce registration details, eligible counties/areas, and application deadlines through official channels.
Guidance for Survivors
While IA is under review, impacted residents are encouraged to:
- Document damage (photos and video)
- Save receipts for disaster-related expenses (cleanup, temporary repairs, lodging, and essential items)
- If insured, initiate or continue insurance claims and keep all related records
Local Resources Available Now
Survivors can also seek immediate assistance through local community organizations, nonprofits, and faith-based partners, which vary by county and may provide cleanup support, supplies, temporary needs assistance, and referrals.
For the most current county-specific resources, residents should follow updates from their local emergency management agency and local government channels.
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency will continue to provide updates as information becomes available, including any federal determination regarding FEMA Individual Assistance.
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