(The Center Square) – At least five people have died and that number is expected to increase after severe storms hit the western and middle portions of Tennessee.
“There has been a great deal of storm activity and damage,” Gov. Bill Lee said in a Friday news conference with emergency leaders. “And yet there’s more to come.”
Lee issued an emergency declaration ahead of storms that moved through the state on Thursday. A tornado was confirmed in the McNairy County town of Selmer, where at least one person died, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency.
There were two deaths in Fayette County, and one each in Carroll and Obion counties, the agency said.
More storms are expected this weekend especially west of I-65, according to the National Weather Service.
“Do not be surprised by a severe storm or tornado watch soon,” the agency said Friday afternoon on social media. “We are still watching Saturday afternoon and night for peak storms and flash flooding.’
Some areas could see up to 8 inches of rain this weekend, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency.
“Life safety missions are currently ongoing and is the top priority in our rescue and response operations,” agency officials said in a report. “Once life safety missions are complete and the storm system moves through the state, TEMA alongside our local and federal partners will begin damage assessments.”
Lee was on the ground with first responders touring damage Thursday and Friday.
“Middle and West Tennesseans face a long road to recovery after severe weather, and there is great hope in seeing how communities are coming together to serve their neighbors in this time of need,” Lee said said Gov. Lee. “We will continue to look for every opportunity to support local recovery efforts.”
