Hurricane Helene Flooding Leaves 11 Dead in Tennessee

Following devastating flooding from Hurricane Helene, at least 11 fatalities have been confirmed in East Tennessee, with 23 individuals still reported missing, according to the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA). The agency indicated that investigations by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) are ongoing, with over 500 calls received about missing people, although this number does not account for all missing individuals. Efforts to locate the missing are being prioritized, and Governor Bill Lee has requested a major disaster declaration to facilitate federal assistance. TEMA officials have noted significant operational issues with drinking water facilities, with boil water advisories issued in several counties. Major roadways remain closed due to the flooding, complicating recovery efforts, and TEMA is coordinating with local and federal agencies to stabilize infrastructure and provide support to affected communities.