Tennessee Governor Requests Federal Disaster Aid After Storm

The request aims to speed up recovery efforts for over 300,000 customers left without power.

Jan. 29, 2026 at 5:47pm

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Tennessee Governor Bill Lee has requested an expedited major disaster declaration from President Donald Trump in the wake of a massive winter storm that left over 300,000 customers without power across the state. The storm caused significant damage to infrastructure and prompted the governor to seek additional federal resources to assist with recovery efforts in 23 impacted counties.

Why it matters

The major disaster declaration, if approved, would unlock additional federal funding and resources to help state and local governments repair public infrastructure, clear roadways, and provide assistance to impacted individuals. This could be crucial for communities struggling to recover from the widespread power outages and damage caused by the storm.

The details

The winter storm and subsequent cold temperatures left many areas of Tennessee with dangerous icy conditions, downed trees, and over 300,000 power outages, including more than 225,000 in Nashville alone. President Trump had already approved an emergency declaration earlier this week, providing some immediate federal support. However, the major disaster declaration requested by Governor Lee could open up more substantial FEMA aid for repairs and individual assistance.

  • The winter storm hit Tennessee on January 25, 2026.
  • President Trump approved an emergency declaration for the state earlier this week.
  • Governor Lee requested the expedited major disaster declaration on January 29, 2026.

The players

Bill Lee

The Governor of Tennessee who requested the major disaster declaration from the President.

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who will decide whether to approve the major disaster declaration requested by Governor Lee.

Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)

The federal agency that would provide disaster assistance and recovery resources if the major disaster declaration is approved.

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What they’re saying

“'Winter Storm Fern has created significant damage in communities across Tennessee, and state and local officials, first responders, and volunteers continue to provide critical support. I'm grateful to President Trump for granting federal resources to support Tennesseans, and am hopeful our Major Disaster Declaration will be approved quickly.'”

— Bill Lee, Governor of Tennessee

What’s next

If the major disaster declaration is approved by President Trump, it would unlock additional FEMA resources and funding to assist with recovery efforts in the impacted counties across Tennessee.

The takeaway

This winter storm has caused significant damage across Tennessee, leaving hundreds of thousands without power. The governor's request for a major disaster declaration is a crucial step to secure federal aid and resources to help communities rebuild and recover from the storm's impact.