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Red Cross opens emergency shelters for flooding evacuees across Tennessee

Posted at 11:48 AM, Feb 23, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-24 23:22:07-05

MANCHESTER, Tenn. (WTVF) — Residents in Coffee County and many others were evacuated from their homes on Saturday after excessive rain flooded Middle Tennessee.

Emergency officials said that those who live on Ester Lane in Manchester could be in danger as flood waters continue to rise.

Additionally, residents in other areas such as Moore and Clay county were told to leave their homes earlier in the day before rescue teams may be unable to retrieve them.

The American Red Cross then sprung into action, aiding these residents who had to leave their homes.

The Red Cross' emergency shelter is now open for evacuees from the area.The shelter in Coffee County is located at College Street Elementary School in Manchester, 405 College Street.

"We’re watching and monitoring the river crests locations," said Scott Toncray, a red cross volunteer. "Right now our primary focus is sheltering anyone displaced."

On Saturday, Toncray says they opened 21 shelters and will continue opening more based on the need.

Additional shelters have been opened by the Red Cross in other locations as well. A Nashville shelter is currently open at McGavock High School at 3150 McGavock Pike.

The Red Cross has also released the following statement regarding what people should bring with them (if possible) to the shelters:

"What to bring (if possible): Each family member should have prescription and emergency medication, extra clothing, pillows, blankets, hygiene supplies, important documents and other comfort items. Additionally, include special items for children and infants, such as diapers, formulas and toys, should be brought, along with other items for family members who may have other needs."

The following locations are available to those seeking shelter in Middle Tennessee:

Bedford County:
Fair Haven Baptist Church
2726 Hwy 231 NORTH
SHELBYVILLE, TN

Coffee County:
College Street Elementary School
405 College Street
Manchester, TN

Davidson County:
McGavock High School
3150 McGavock Pike
Donelson, TN

Giles County:
Elkton Baptist Church
460 Market Street
Prospect, TN

Hickman County:
Fairfield Church of Christ
1860 Highway 100
Centerville, TN

Maury County:
West 7th Street Church of Christ
405 W 7th Street
Columbia, TN

Moore County:
First United Methodist Church - Independent
65 Mechanic Street N.
Lynchburg, TN

Rutherford County:
Highland Heights Church of Christ
785 South Lowry Street US Hwy 41
Smyrna, TN

You can find more information about safe locations to go after evacuating on the American Red Cross of Tennessee Facebook Page.