All missing people accounted for in Putnam County as emergency crews continue relief work

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The good news coming out of Cookeville and Putnam County Thursday is the death toll has not risen and all people reported missing have been found or accounted for.

Officials warned that the missing number could increase, but they have a team of people who follow up on the leads and can often times locate people in a matter of minutes.

Putnam County officials have completed their initial assessment of the damage and say more than 400 people were affected by the storm and suffered damage of some kind, including 31 businesses.

Search and rescue crews have found 42 firearms among the debris. They were taken by officials and will remain there until they can be returned to their owners.

Officials have extended the 7 p.m. to 8 a.m. curfew for the affected to the weekend and into next week as well as the temporary flight restriction which will remain in place until 10 a.m. Saturday.

Law enforcement made their second looting arrest in the tornado-damaged area. And Tennessee Highway Patrol troopers made their third DUI arrest in affected area.

Officials warned neighbors as power is beginning to be restored, asking homeowners with damage to turn off the main breakers in order to keep fires from starting in the damaged areas.