News » Nashville Flooding
Disastrous Flooding in Nashville
Photo slideshow below!
President Obama has declared the 4 counties within Middle Tennessee as a federal disaster area after experiencing historic rainfalls of more than 13 inches this past weekend (25% of the yearly average for the area), resulting in massive flooding of Nashville’s downtown and surrounding neighborhoods and counties.
The Cumberland River, which flows through the downtown area, crested at 51.9, over 10 feet above flood levels. Thousands of homes are under water. Many iconic landmarks such as the Grand Old Opry, LP field, and Country Music Hall of Fame are filled with several feet of standing water. One of the two water treatment plants is submerged, and water reserves are already at 37%. Residents have been asked to decrease their water capacity by half.
As the city continues to attend to the immediate needs, there is future concern about the effects this will have on the city’s economy. Entire shopping centers have been closed due to flooding and it is unknown if events which bring in tourist, like the CMA music festival, will even be held. Although most were evacuated, homeless camps throughout the Nashville area have been flooded and became inhabitable.
Devastation.
Volunteer rescue crews have worked around the clock to ensure everyone had the option to evacuate. Residents continue to embody Tennessee’s nickname as the volunteer state. May this spirit continue to be present over the next few months/years as we rebuild our city.
On the CSM Homefront
Thankfully, CSM Nashville’s housing site/offices were not damaged and both Kristin and I experienced minimal damage to our homes. Not having to sift through our own debris has allowed us time to connect with our ministry sites and explore ways for our summer groups to assist with the restoration of our city.
How you can help
Although we are working on a list of material donations for groups to gather and bring with them when they come to the city, currently the best way to assist with the flood recovery is through monetary donation. The following organizations have set up funds to go directly toward flood recovery and restoration.
- Community Foundation’s Flood Disaster Recovery Fund: http://givingmatters.guidestar.org
- Red Cross
- Visit the Nashville Red Cross website and click DONATE NOW to make an online gift
- Mail a check to the Nashville Area Red Cross:
2201 Charlotte Avenue, Nashville, TN 37203 - Call (615) 250-4300 to make a donation by phone
- Text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation on your mobile phone
For those who live near Middle Tennessee, we encourage you to register with Hands On Nashville for updates on volunteer opportunities. Volunteers organized through Hands On Nashville are tracked and effect the amount of FEMA funds received to cover expenses.
You may also contact Kristin or myself, and we will be happy to connect you with ministry partners who are in need.
Thank you for your continued thoughts and prayers. May His presence be strong in this suffering and His hope bring peace.
-Jes Williams, CSM Nashville City Director
