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NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Since Winter Storm Fern began, Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) troopers have been assisting stranded drivers, responding to crashes, removing trees and other roadway hazards to help restore roadway access for power crews and citizens, transporting Tennesseans to warming centers and conducting welfare checks on Tennesseans who have not been heard from since the historic winter storm began.
THP Statewide Impact Since 3 a.m. Central Time on Jan. 24:
3 fatal crashes
The cause of the fatalities have not yet been determined. The Tennessee Department of Health will determine whether it is weather-related.
95 crashes involving injuries
484 crashes involving property damage
1879 motorist assists
226 abandoned vehicles
339 roadway obstructions, many caused by downed trees
2 vehicle fires
4105 total phone calls to *THP requesting assistance
More than 75 welfare checks have already been performed by THP troopers, Tennessee Office of Homeland Security Agents and other partners. To request a welfare check call 1-800-TBI-FIND (1-800-824-3463), Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. TBI activated this hotline for only third time in history to coordinate disaster-related family reconnection efforts.
Although roadway conditions are improving, troopers will continue to patrol statewide and coordinate with local and state first responders and emergency managers as winter weather impacts persist. Drivers are urged to avoid travel if possible. Those who must be on the road should slow down, increase following distance, identify alternate routes ahead of time and remain alert for rapidly changing conditions.
For updates on storm response and recovery efforts, visit www.tn.gov/TEMA. See live state road conditions through the Tennessee Department of Transportation’s SmartWay Traffic portal, https://smartway.tn.gov/
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