Tropical Storm Sally: NFD, Middle Tennessee agencies deploying to Louisiana

The Nashville Fire Department will be among several Middle Tennessee agencies lending aid in search and rescue efforts following Tropical Storm Sally's upcoming landfall in Louisiana.

The department announced it will be deploying members of NFD as part of Tennessee Task Force 2, according to a press release on Monday. The deployment of Tennessee agencies comes at the request of FEMA and is a function of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

It will also enable states to share resources during natural and man-made disasters, including terrorism, according to the press release.

Tropical Storm Sally is predicted to strengthen to a Category 1 Hurricane before making landfall on Tuesday. A Category 1 Hurricane can include winds of up to 95 MPH, which threatens to damage homes, trees and bring down power lines and poles, according to the National Weather Service.

The deployment of Tennessee agencies is similar to the planned deployment for Hurricane Laura on August 27, which was cancelled en route by Louisiana Emergency Management officials. Agencies involved include the NFD Swift Water Rescue Team, NFD Urban Search and Rescue Team and an NFD Medic Unit, as well as personnel from the Metro Nashville Police Department, Metro Nashville Public Works, Nashville General Services, Williamson County Communications, Brentwood Fire Department, Franklin Fire Department and Murfreesboro Fire and Rescue Department.

The deployment is expected to last 14 days, however, can be reduced or extended depending on the needs of local officials.

“We are called the Volunteer State because that is what we do when called upon, we help our neighbors.” Director Chief William Swann said via NFD's press release. “We all train with our neighboring agencies so when we are requested, we can work as a seamless unit to respond to communities in need.”

Responders will bring multiple tools and equipment to be used during response efforts.

Photo: Nashville Fire Department