Selmer, Tenn. — A devastating EF-3 tornado tore through McNairy County, Tennessee, claiming at least four lives and injuring over 20 individuals, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency. The severe weather event struck the area late Thursday night, causing significant destruction across various parts of the county including the small town of Selmer.
Local authorities reported considerable damage to both residential and commercial properties. In Selmer, many buildings suffered extensive damage, with some structures completely destroyed. The aftermath scenes indicate a widespread disruption of daily life, with debris scattered across the once-busy streets.
In response to the crisis, the American Red Cross has set up a relief operation at the Selmer Community Center. The center is providing hot meals and a temporary shelter to those displaced by the storm. This effort is part of a broader community response aiming to support recovery and provide immediate relief to affected residents.
Governor Bill Lee, along with Congressman David Kustoff and state officials, visited Selmer to assess the damage and coordinate state-level support for the emergency response and recovery operations. Their visit underscored the state’s commitment to aid the affected community and rebuild the impacted areas.
Additionally, local and state law enforcement agencies, including the Selmer Police Department and Tennessee Highway Patrol, have been actively involved in the emergency response. Teams from Tennessee Task Force One out of Memphis also joined the efforts, highlighting a unified approach to managing the disaster.
The community’s resilience is being tested as the weather remains a threat. Emergency management continues to warn of the potential for further rain and flooding, urging the public to remain vigilant and prepared for more adverse conditions.
With ongoing recovery efforts, community leaders and volunteers are rallying to restore normalcy, highlighting the region’s solidarity in times of hardship. The forthcoming days are critical as the community navigates the challenges of recovery amidst continued weather threats, striving towards rebuilding and healing after the tragic events.