Cybersecdn- The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has confirmed six deaths statewide as a result of a severe winter storm sweeping across the region. The agency warns that temperatures are expected to remain below freezing until at least Thursday.
Adding to the toll, the Knoxville Police Department reported a separate traffic fatality attributed to the hazardous conditions brought on by the storm. In a breakdown of the casualties, TEMA disclosed two fatalities in Shelby County, one in Hickman County, one in Madison County, and two in Washington County.
Additionally, a tragic incident on I-75 North near Callahan Drive involved a driver fatally rear-ending a semi-truck amid snowy road conditions. Governor Bill Lee declared a state of emergency on January 13, a move aimed at facilitating fuel transportation for commercial vehicles until January 27, in anticipation of heightened demand due to the extreme cold.
TEMA: 6 confirmed deaths due to winter storm across state; KPD also reports 1 death in Knoxville area https://t.co/shPvP7ZBuK
— WBIR Channel 10 (@wbir) January 17, 2024
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TEMA’s statement also highlighted the region’s increased demand for power, prompting businesses and the public to reduce electricity usage as much as possible, prioritizing safety. The Tennessee Valley Authority issued an alert on Tuesday, urging voluntary power conservation measures, including staying indoors, turning off unnecessary lights, lowering thermostats, and minimizing appliance use. Statewide, warming centers have been opened to offer refuge to those needing a warm place to stay.