Maryville, Tenn. – The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security is honoring the courage and determination of those who helped during the devastating floods that struck East Tennessee following Hurricane Helene. Among those recognized is Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper Hannah Smathers, whose harrowing experience during the floods serves as a testament to her commitment to duty and selflessness.
On the day of the flooding, Trooper Smathers was conducting a routine check on roadways to assist motorists when she found herself trapped by the rising floodwaters. While navigating a section of roadway, Smathers came upon a mailbox nearly submerged in water, signaling that she was approaching a dangerous area. At that moment, she encountered 4.5 feet of rapidly moving water that stood between her and a safe path.
“I came around the curve through a small section of flowing water and saw a mailbox ahead that was nearly submerged,” Smathers recalled. “There was 4.5 feet of fast-moving water in front of me. I knew I couldn’t drive through that. But I also couldn’t turn around because the current behind me was strong enough to disable my vehicle.”
As the floodwaters rose, Smathers was left stranded on the road with no way to move forward or back. A swift water rescue team was deployed to extract her from the perilous situation, but the floodwaters were so severe that they could only reach her from the interstate, some 500 feet away. Despite the overwhelming danger, Smathers maintained her composure.
The rescue team provided Smathers with a lifejacket and a rope, but the lack of a harness meant that she had to hold tightly to the rope to avoid being swept away by the current. “The second I stepped away from my car, my feet were swept out from under me,” she explained. “I went underwater, but I held onto the rope. That was my only chance.”
After a dramatic and intense rescue, Smathers was safely brought to higher ground. But her efforts didn’t stop there. Despite being soaked and covered in river mud, Smathers immediately turned her attention to another individual in need. She assisted a driver who had broken his ankle, all while remaining in the same uniform she had worn at the start of her shift.
Without hesitation, Smathers continued to perform her duties, helping those stranded by the storm and checking on motorists at the Welcome Center. For 18 hours, she worked tirelessly, putting the needs of others ahead of her own well-being. The Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security highlighted her unwavering commitment and courage, praising her as an example of heroic service under the most trying of circumstances.
Trooper Hannah Smathers’ actions during the flood serve as a powerful reminder of the selflessness and bravery that first responders display every day, especially in times of crisis. Her determination and willingness to serve, even in the face of personal danger, have earned her widespread recognition as one of the “Hurricane Helene Heroes.”
