The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) has released numbers reflecting a strenuous weekend as a severe snowstorm swept through the state. According to WSMV, troopers were called to the scenes of 645 crashes, which included the tragic loss of two children in Springfield, a case that is currently being investigated as vehicular homicide among the three fatal incidents reported.
The THP also provided non-collision-related aid, as 874 motorists were stranded and needed assistance during the snowstorm. Efforts to help those affected were extensive, with dispatchers quickly answering a total of 1,708 calls. "The snowstorm posed significant challenges for Tennesseans and the dedicated Troopers of the Tennessee Highway Patrol," Commissioner Jeff Long stated, in an expression of pride for the work done by troopers and dispatchers, as reported by WJHL.
As Middle Tennessee begins to recover from the storm's impact, clean-up efforts are ongoing. "I would say 98% of the roads are totally clear. We might have a few slick spots tonight because of the temperatures, but they’re in great shape," Toby Ellis, Sumner County road superintendent, told News 2. The weekend also saw THP troopers provide round-the-clock services to ensure statewide safety, as stated by THP Maj. Travis Plotzer in a Facebook video.
Despite the significant progress in road conditions, the National Weather Service (NWS) Nashville has issued a caution for drivers to remain vigilant for black ice, especially as temperatures drop overnight. "A lot of the primary roads are in good shape, but that would be specifically for your secondary and less traveled roads," lead forecaster Scott Unger warned in a statement obtained by News 2.
