The Tennessee National Guard is actively supporting state, county, and local emergency responders in East Tennessee, which has been severely affected by flooding following the landfall of Hurricane Helene.
In collaboration with the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, guardsmen are providing continuous ground and aerial rescue support. Members of the 1-230th Assault Helicopter Battalion, stationed at Knoxville’s Joint Base McGhee-Tyson, have been conducting rescue missions in the flooded regions. Last Friday, three UH-60L Blackhawk helicopters executed nearly 60 aerial rescues, including evacuating hospital staff and patients from Unicoi County Hospital.
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Additionally, the 45th Civil Support Team from Smyrna, certified in swift water rescue, deployed to assist with rescue operations. The 176th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion from Johnson City provided four Light Medium Tactical Vehicles (LMTVs) to aid in water rescue missions in Carter County. These vehicles, with high ground clearance, are essential for navigating flooded areas.
On Saturday, seven Blackhawk helicopters from Knoxville and Nashville’s Berry Field continued rescue efforts, saving nearly 15 people and conducting critical missions such as dam and bridge assessments, surveys of damaged areas, and transporting essential supplies. They are also collaborating with the Nashville Fire Department as part of Tennessee’s Helicopter Aquatic Rescue Team.
These operations are coordinated through the Tennessee Military Department’s Joint Emergency Operations Center (JEOC), which was activated before Hurricane Helene’s landfall. The JEOC manages National Guard responses, communicates with partner agencies, and rapidly deploys emergency resources. Currently, a debris removal team of over 50 engineering specialists from Trenton’s 230th Engineer Battalion and Knoxville’s 134th Air Refueling Wing is working to restore critical infrastructure in East Tennessee.
The Tennessee National Guard will continue its rescue and relief efforts for as long as necessary. For assistance, contact local authorities. To report a missing person in the affected area, call the TBI FIND line at 1-800-TBI-FIND / 1-800-824-3463.
Source: Read Original Release
Preparations for Hurricane Helene’s Impact in Nashville
Authorities in Metro Nashville Davidson County are preparing for the impact of Hurricane Helene, which is expected to bring heavy rain, flooding, and high winds starting Thursday evening. The Nashville Office of Emergency Management, in coordination with the National Weather Service, is taking various measures to ensure public safety, while residents are urged to secure outdoor items, stay informed, and avoid flooded areas.