(Story courtesy of WVLT News)
Cocke County, TN (WVLT) Cocke County Mayor Rob Mathis provided an update on storm damage and deaths Sunday evening.
Mathis said the county has suffered two deaths in relation to the flood. Cocke County Sheriff CJ Ball later identified those two as Jean and Mike Obrist.
During the update, Mathis also said all missing people in Cocke County have been accounted for.
“That, in itself, is miraculous,” Mathis said about all missing people being accounted for. “That is a testimony to the hard work of our emergency responders who have rescued people by land, by water and by air. We’ve done everything we can to get to everybody. Everyone who was in need of rescue has been rescued.”
Mathis said multiple agencies are continuing to respond to calls of service as county residents recover from the flood.
“We are so grateful for everyone, both here in the county and all of the folks from outside agencies and people, pouring in support, food, help and rescue efforts to help our county. It’s been amazing,” Mathis said. “Seeing how everyone has pulled together is truly inspirational.”
In order to best serve specific needs, phone numbers have been set up for residents to call. Anyone with an emergency is asked to dial 911. To report missing persons, call 423-540-5551. To make a request for non-perishable food and water donations, call 423-540-0171. Cash donations can be made with Cocke County Partnership, Mathis said, adding that a phone number has not been setup yet.
“We’re here to help you. Just as we did not rest until every single person was rescued, we will still not rest until everyone gets what they need and this is resolved,” Mathis said.
There were also two other “weather-related” deaths in East Tennessee reported on Sunday out of Johnson and Unicoi counties.
A list of missing people is being compiled by TBI and TEMA, and an updated total of missing individuals is expected to be released later Sunday evening.
