TEMA asking federal government to assess Copperhill damage for future aid

Commissioner of the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority Patrick C. Sheehan

COPPERHILL, Tenn. —Polk County and Copperhill leaders are outlining the next steps in flood recovery as residents and businesses face a long road to rebuilding.

State officials say damage assessments are underway, with federal agencies expected to help determine what assistance may be available.

Local and state officials are working to assess flood damage and coordinate recovery efforts in Polk County following devastating flooding in Copperhill and surrounding communities.

During a news conference Monday, Copperhill Mayor Greg

During a news conference Monday, Copperhill Mayor Greg Barker described the flooding as life-altering for residents and businesses, with some families losing everything for a second time.

Tennessee Emergency Management Agency Commissioner Patrick Sheehan said the state has completed its initial damage assessments and invited the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Small Business Administration to conduct additional assessments this week.

Those assessments will help determine what federal assistance may be available to residents, businesses and local governments.

Officials are asking residents to report storm damage

Officials are asking residents to report storm damage to Polk County Emergency Management at 423-338-1090 to help document losses and identify needs.

Copperhill is currently requesting donations of dehumidifiers, lights, headlamps and fans, which can be dropped off at City Hall at 160 Main St.

The city is also accepting monetary donations through its Copperhill Relief Fund,with contributions expected to be divided between residents and businesses.

Mayor Barker said Copperhill remains closed

Mayor Barker said Copperhill remains closed to the public, and Highway 68 is expected to remain closed for the rest of the week as cleanup continues.

Officials also said a boil water advisory remains in effect while water samples undergo testing, with results expected Monday afternoon.

3
NEW$2,000 reward offered for red toy poodle taken from truck in Chattanooga Sunday5
NEWMysterious tick disease effecting a new Tennessean every day3
Suspect in custody after Tremont Street stabbing injures 1 Monday, CPD says4
Red Bank officer suffers brain bleed in charity boxing match: Family seeks help