/ Tennessee Resources for Severe Weather

Tennessee Resources for Severe Weather

August 24, 2026

Imagine Pediatrics is here for you 24/7 – even during severe weather. Our dedicated care team is available around the clock, every day of the year, to provide care and support for your child with special health care needs. Whether it’s through our Imagine Pediatrics Mobile App or by calling (833) 208-7770, we are here to make things easier for you and your child. 

Bad weather can be very scary for families with children with special health care needs. We are here day and night to provide mental health, medical, and social care, as well as support in finding shelter and resources for our patients and their families across Tennessee.

For national disaster shelter information:  

American Red Cross Emergency Shelter Finder https://www.redcross.org/get-help/disaster-relief-and-recovery-services/find-an-open-shelter.html 

Interactive map showing open shelters during disasters. 

FEMA ZIP Code Shelter Search (SMS) Text SHELTER <your ZIP code> to 43362 to receive nearby open emergency shelters during declared disasters. 

For the latest news and information about storms in Tennessee:

Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA): https://www.tn.gov/tema.html — the state’s central source for disaster updates, shelter maps, and preparedness guidance. 

TN 211: Dial 2-1-1, or text your ZIP code to 898-211, to reach the United Way’s free, confidential, 24/7 helpline for local disaster and crisis resources.  

TN511 / SmartWay: https://smartway.tn.gov — real-time road and traffic conditions maintained by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, useful for evacuation routes and road closures during storms.

Shelters in Tennessee  

TEMA Tennessee Shelters map: https://www.tn.gov/tema/tennessee-shelters.html — an interactive map of warming centers and shelters opened by local counties during severe weather; hours and availability vary by location, so check the notes for the site nearest you or contact your local Emergency Management Agency. 

Tennessee special needs resources 

  • Tennessee Disability Pathfinder: A statewide, 24/7 hub connecting Tennesseans with disabilities to disaster-related help including shelter, medical equipment, transportation, and disability-specific support. Phone: 1-800-640-4636 | Website: https://www.tnpathfinder.org  
  • Disability Rights Tennessee (formerly Disability Law & Advocacy Center of TN): Free legal advocacy for people with disabilities during disaster response and recovery. Phone: 1-800-342-1660 
  • Tennessee Disaster Support Network (TDSN): A Tennessee Department of Health initiative that reaches out to populations with unique needs and the agencies that serve them before, during, and after disasters. Phone: 615-741-7247 | Email: [email protected]  

Important phone numbers 

Prepare Emergency Items 

Gather a supply of items that may help in case of an emergency. Put the items in a go-bag emergency kit. See a full FEMA Emergency Checklist in here (in English, Spanish, French, Arabic, Tagalog, Korean) 

  • Water (one gallons per person per day) 
  • Non-perishable food and a non-electric can opener 
  • Flashlight  
  • First aid kit 
  • Cell phone 
  • Back-up batteries, fully charged 
  • Charging cords and extension cords 
  • Extra supply of medications, formula, DME 
  • A written or printed Care Plan with medical team contact information  
  • Cash in small bills 
  • Extra clothing and blankets 
  • Government issued-ID 
  • Insurance cards 
  • Emergency contact list 

We’re Here for You and Your Child 

Imagine Pediatrics is dedicated to improving the health and lives of children with special health care needs. We provide 24/7 virtual and in-home care and support. Our integrated medical, mental, and social care is personalized to meet the needs of your child. We don’t replace your child’s current care team. We work with them to give your child more access to the specialized care they need, whenever they need it. Our services are often at no cost if they are part of your child’s existing health plan benefits. Learn more about us here or call us (833) 208-7770.

Legal Disclaimer 

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with qualified healthcare professionals for medical concerns. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Unlimited 24/7 access to your care team via messaging, phone call, or video visit.