24 dead, many missing as tornado rips through Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tennessee, United States – Not less than 24 people have been confirmed dead and dozens of others missing after a powerful tornado tore through Nashville, in Tennessee, United States.

The tornado caused severe damage to homes, vehicles and cut off several counties in Nashville. So far, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency(TEMA) has confirmed 24 death, with many missing.

TEMA confirmed 18 people dead in Putnam County, 3 in Wilson County, 2 in Davidson County and 1 in Benton County as a result of the tornado.

TEMA has appealed to those missing to get in touch with loved ones. “Let loved ones know your are safe by checking in on social media or sending a text”, and for people to refrain from driving to keep available streets and roads clear for emergency personnel.

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“Do not enter damaged buildings or hazardous locations. Continue to monitor radio and television broadcasts for further emergency information and instructions “.So far, shelters have been opened for those who have lost their homes and means of livelihood as a result of the devastation in Nashville.

Currently there are 5 shelters in Tennessee, 3 American Red Cross Shelters and 2 Shelters in Wilson County. See address and details of the shelters here

Speaking on the level of devastation, Governor of Tennessee, Bill Lee said the state has activated a strong coordinated response effort to last night’s devastating storms.

“In the hours ahead, we will continue deploying search and rescue teams, opening shelters across the state, and sending emergency personnel to our communities hit hardest”, he said, adding that emergency and local officials are providing updates @T_E_M_A

He encourage all Tennesseans to join them in praying for the “families across our state that are facing tragedy today. Thank you to our first responders for working around the clock to keep us safe on this difficult day”.

“Maria and I send our prayers across Tennessee this morning as our state suffers from last night’s storms. I am at @T_E_M_A this morning working closely with our emergency and local officials and coordinating resources to help our neighbors in need.I’m proud to announce Stephen Smith as the new Director of @TennCareRep As a longtime public servant, I’m confident that his experience and leadership will build on TennCare’s momentum and keep our state a leader in the nation”, he said.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol is appealing to residents not to enter areas damaged by storm.

“Do not enter into damaged storm areas. Not all areas are rendered safe. Do not attempt to go inside damaged homes or buildings. If you did not live in a damaged area, then do not enter the area to sightsee. Refrain from driving, if possible”, the TN Highway Patrol said of the situation in Nashville.