Flash Flood in Wayne County, Tennessee

A Lawrence County man was killed on Buttermilk Ridge Road, about 3.3 miles from U.S. Highway 64 east. His 1996 Pontiac Sunfire suddenly came upon a section of road that was completely washed away by flood waters. About 40 feet of the road was completely gone. The vehicle went airborne and struck the far side of the washed out road, then came to rest in the rushing flood waters. 50 individuals had to be rescued from flooded homes or assisted in getting out of the flloded areas. 18 people had to be rescued from the Tennessee-Fitness Spa by airboat. On Cantrell Lane, just south of Waynesboro, several families were rescued by boat. 5 mentally challenged individuals had to be rescued by boat at Belew Hollow Rd. 100 homes were under water in Wayne County. 18 roads and bridges were washed out in southern Wayne County.

The White House granted Governor Phil Bredesen's request for Presential Disaster Declaration for 20 counties in West and Middle Tennessee for damage as a result of tornadoes, flooding and severe thunderstorms which began on Sunday , May 4, 2003.