Progress Made By First Responders In Wake Of Deadly Weather Event

Monday afternoon update on severe weather response:

We have cleared 75-80% of the structures that were in the path of the tornado.

“I want to highlight the amount of work first responders did today. Phenomenal job,” Fire Chief Phil Hyman said.

Seventeen people were transported by Hamilton County EMS to the hospital with injuries.

There were two fatalities (next of kin has been notified for one of the victims, still working to get in touch with the other victim’s relatives)

“Our hearts go out to those families,” Chief Hyman said.

Mayor Andy Berke thanked all of the first responders working long hours and agencies from across TN for reaching out to help.

Officials went up in a helicopter to get a better look at the damage and it appears the impacted area is 1/2 mile wide and 4 miles long.

“There are homes destroyed and that’s devastating to see from sky. The human toll is extremely difficult,” the mayor stated. “We could see first responders on the ground working, bushwhacking and using chain saws to cut through debris to get to areas to survey homes and help people. We are grateful for each and every one of these individuals.”

Folks are asked to stay away from damaged areas. Please don’t come to take pictures and see damage because you are impeding the work of emergency crews.

“We are making progress. The toughest times bring out the best in our people and show the strength of our community,” Mayor Berke added. “This is a tough period coming on the heels of the pandemic issues. We are tough. We will get through this time as well.”

From 8pm-8am, there will be an access enforcement program initiated to limit entry to impacted areas to those who live there.

After the helicopter flight, CFD now thinks there are more than 150 damaged structures, but crews are still assessing the overall destruction.

We have been sending masks, gowns, and eye protection to first responders on the forefront of the storm response.

Chief Hyman thinks Chattanooga is "looking at a number of weeks before we can get back to normal." Volunteer efforts are being coordinated.