[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 41 (Tuesday, April 4, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S2759]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            TENNESSEE STORMS

  Mr. FRIST. Mr. President, on Sunday evening, severe storms and 
tornadoes struck the western part of Tennessee, leaving a damage trail 
25 miles long and a quarter to a half mile wide throughout Dyer County. 
It really struck two counties, Dyer and Gibson. The assessment is 
underway. About 2,000 homes and businesses have been destroyed or 
suffered substantial damage, a devastating blow to these small rural 
communities which have suffered the greatest impact from the storm. 
There have been reported 23 fatalities that have been confirmed as a 
result of the tragedy. A number of other Tennesseans--right now, the 
count is roughly 82--have been injured, 17 critically. This morning, I 
offer my deepest sympathy to the loved ones, the families that have 
been affected. My thoughts go out to those recovering from these 
unforeseen events.
  Governor Bredesen has requested a major disaster declaration for the 
State, and yesterday I asked the President for expeditious review and 
approval of Tennessee's request for assistance. I spoke yesterday with 
the Acting Director of FEMA, David Paulison, as well to express my 
strong support for the State's request. I will continue working with 
the administration and my colleagues in the Tennessee delegation to 
ensure State and local officials have the resources they need to assist 
our communities.
  Again, our thoughts and prayers go out to all of the families 
affected.

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