[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 64 (Wednesday, April 9, 2025)]
[Senate]
[Page S2500]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]



                            Tennessee Storms

  Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. President, in recent days, Middle and West 
Tennesseans have faced severe storms that have truly upended the lives 
of many of our communities and our citizens. Over 4 days, parts of our 
State saw more than 12 inches of rainfall. This has caused rising 
rivers, flash floods, and it has forced people out of their homes and 
their businesses.
  At the same time, we have seen devastating tornadoes that have 
destroyed homes, businesses, and entire communities. In Selmer, TN, one 
tornado reached winds of 160 miles per hour, leaving a path of 
destruction. In the words of one survivor, the storms have left the 
town ``unrecognizable.''
  As a result of this devastation, we have lost the lives of 10 
Tennesseans. My heart goes out to every single one of their families as 
our State mourns this loss and as the communities gather to grieve the 
loss of their citizens.
  Right now, Tennessee remains in a state of emergency. Over the 
weekend in Nashville, I visited the State Emergency Operations Center 
and received an update from the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, 
FEMA, Tennessee Department of Transportation, Tennessee Highway Patrol, 
and other agencies on our State's emergency response. I also had the 
opportunity to visit with nonprofits that are meeting the needs on the 
ground of our citizens.
  I do want to say thank you to all of the first responders and the 
volunteers and the emergency teams who are working around the clock to 
meet the needs of so many.
  With water still rising in our State, power lines down, and many 
roads blocked completely, it is imperative that Tennesseans listen to 
local authorities and take every precaution to keep themselves safe. My 
team is working closely with State and Federal and local agencies, and 
we are ready to assist anyone who has endured these awful, awful 
storms.
  In the face of any crisis, Tennesseans always come together. As we 
start to pick up the pieces from these storms, I know you will see that 
volunteer spirit alive and well in Tennessee.