Welfare checks ramp up as troopers call ice storm the worst in decades in Tennessee

GREENBRIER, Tenn (WSMV) - As crews continue restoring power across Robertson County, Tennessee Highway Patrol is urging drivers to stay home if they can. Officials are warning that icy roads are still creating serious problems for emergency responders.

Lieutenant Bill Miller with THP said passing vehicles have packed ice down into slick, polished layers, making it harder for first responders to reach crashes and medical calls.

Miller said the storm has hit close to home.

His family in Robertson County was without power for about 30 hours and nearly had to leave for a warming shelter before electricity was restored.

Related: Tennessee establishes TBI hotline to help with welfare check in aftermath of winter storm

“My family, my home, was without power for approximately 30 hours, and just blessed to have a roof over our head, blessed to have blankets and a shelter to keep the wind off of us, but it was cold,” Miller said. “We now have power. Thank goodness to Cumberland Electric. Very proud of them and the job they’re doing. None of us were immune, so please stay in and stay warm as best as possible.”

Across Greenbrier, community groups have stepped in to help. Agape Church has been operating as a warming center and feeding first responders working long hours in dangerous conditions.

Miller says crashes involving ambulances and other emergency vehicles have been reported across Middle Tennessee. This is a major reason officials are asking everyone to limit travel unless absolutely necessary.

He called this storm one of the worst he has seen.

“The last ice storm that I can recall was ’94,” Miller said. “I lived through that, worked through that with another agency, and it was pretty traumatic. I do have to say this is probably worse. Just the amount of trees that are falling, the damage to the power lines.”

Robertson County Emergency Medical Services says several highways and rural roads remain extremely slick as refreezing continues.

Miller says that has forced troopers to prioritize the most urgent calls. This includes welfare checks on people who may still be without power or phone service.

“The more crashes we’re trying to respond to, the less people we can get to to check on welfare checks or get to actual emergencies,” Miller said. “If you’re off the roadway and have a minor fender bender, we’re still responding to you, but you’re going to have to wait.”

Troopers say they are working with state and local agencies to follow up on calls from loved ones who cannot reach family members, especially in rural areas where fallen trees and downed lines may have cut off communication and electricity.

If you are concerned about someone’s safety, officials say welfare checks can be requested through the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation hotline.

Authorities continue urging people to avoid travel if possible, keep cell phones charged, conserve fuel and check in with friends and family when power is restored.