The South just can't catch a break, just two weeks after a BP oil rig started pumping 200,000 gallons of oil every day into the Gulf of Mexico, torrential rain has caused intense flooding in Tennessee. Governor Phil Bredesen estimates the floods have caused at least $1 billion in damage to the private sector. It's also responsible for at least 30 deaths.
The water is now receding, but thousands are in need of help -- and you can make a difference. Below is a list of actions you can take.
Note: HuffPost Impact is continually adding to this list -- something we missed? E-mail us at impact@huffingtonpost.com with more ways to help.
Al Gore's Suggestions
Al Gore blogged today for Huffington Post with ways to contribute to relief in his home state. He recommends donating to the Metro Nashville Disaster Response Fund or the Tennessee Emergency Response Fund.
Volunteer
HandsOn Nashville is gathering information about volunteer opportunities in the area. If you wish to organize a volunteer effort or know of a group of 10 or more who are participating, enter your information onto their Volunteer Request form and they can help recruit more committed individuals. 12,000 volunteers have already signed up to help.
The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is providing clothes, hygiene and cleaning supplies to those whose homes have flooded. You can donate money or even gift cards from Wal-Mart and Kroger to help purchase these items.
Vince Young's Foundation
Tennessee Titans quarterback Vince Young will send a Reebok Rebuild t-shirt to those who donate at least $100 through The Vincent Young Foundation. Donate here.
Food
The Second Harvest Food Bank of Middle Tennessee is helping the Salvation Army and the Red Cross provide meals. E-mail volunteer@secondharvestmidtn.org to learn where to bring canned goods or donate.
Middle Tennessee Red Cross chapters are distributing more than 26,000 meals. Give to their Disaster Relief fund. You can also donate $10 by texting REDCROSS" to 90999. Give over the phone at (615) 250-4300.
Pets
The Brown Dog Foundation, which offers temporary relief to pet owners during a financial crisis, has offered to contribute up to $300 per pet to provide food and treat them to injuries. Contribute to the Brown Dog Foundation through their PayPal account.
Businesses
Local businesses are contributing to the relief effort, reports the Nashville Business Journal. Check out the ways companies like McDonald's, Home Depot and Nissan are helping out.
This video shows the extent of the devastation. WATCH: