Tennessee Hams Rise Up: Amateur Radio Gains Traction After Deadly Tornadoes

As Tennessee communities begin recovery efforts following the devastating tornado outbreak on April 2–3, 2025, which resulted in at least seven fatalities and widespread destruction, a renewed interest in amateur radio—commonly known as ham radio—is emerging across the Volunteer State.

The storms produced multiple tornadoes, including an EF-3 in McNairy County that severely impacted the town of Selmer (Action News 5). The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) reported extensive damage in Fayette, Hardeman, and McNairy counties (Tennessee.gov). At the height of the storms, more than 300,000 customers were without power statewide (AP News).

In the aftermath, the Amateur Radio Emergency Service (ARES) played a critical role when conventional communication systems failed. ARES volunteers relayed emergency messages between local officials and hard-hit communities. This mirrors the response following Hurricane Helene in 2024, when ARES operators provided over 1,000 hours of emergency communications in areas where cell towers were down (ARRL.org).

The public has taken notice. In Kingsport, the Tri-Cities Amateur Radio Club reported an increase in licensing inquiries, while the Chattanooga Amateur Radio Club is offering a “Ham 101” session to meet growing interest. In Knoxville and Bristol, local clubs are also fielding calls from newcomers interested in emergency radio use.

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