Two “weather-related” deaths have been confirmed in Upper East Tennessee, officials said

UNICOI COUNTY, Tenn. (WVLT) – UPDATE: The Tennessee Department of Health said there have been two weather-related deaths in East Tennessee.

Officials in Unicoi County made the announcement in a press conference on Sunday afternoon.

The confirmed deaths are from Johnson and Unicoi counties. Officials said TDOH is working with the William Jenkins Forensics Center to notify next of kin.

TBI and TEMA are currently compiling a list of missing persons. An updated total number of missing people is expected later Sunday evening.

PREVIOUS: Unicoi County officials clarified how many people were missing in a news conference Sunday morning.

On Saturday, the Unicoi County Emergency Management Agency said 33 people were missing and there were confirmed deaths.

On Sunday morning, officials updated the number of missing people to 73.

Unicoi County EMA Director Jim Erwin said in a news release that an estimated 33 people are missing, later adding that there have been confirmed deaths as a result of flooding from the Nolichucky River.

He later clarified the information that no deaths had been confirmed.

Rescuers found a coffin floating among the rubble and worked to identify the person.

Erwin added that the river is believed to have risen by about 30 feet, causing widespread destruction of property and buildings.

“We are extremely proud of the selfless and determined response of our emergency responders on the ground, who continue to work with relief agencies to assess the extent of the damage,” said Erwin.

Erwin said anyone unable to contact a friend or loved one in the affected area is asked to call 423-560-0261. He also said a fundraising center has been set up at Southside FWB Church, 1313 Chestoa Pike in Erwin.

Also affected by flooding in Erwin, emergency crews had to rescue more than 50 staff and patients from the roof of Unicoi County Hospital on Friday after they became trapped.

Previous coverage: Emergency crews rescue dozens of people from the roof of an East Tennessee hospital after flooding trapped them

Numerous agencies supported recovery efforts in Unicoi County.

Copyright 2024 WVLT. All rights reserved.