Be Weather Aware Today

Good morning! As we have been watching and concerned about this week, severe storms are possible today. A slight risk has been introduced to the area, with an enhanced risk bordering our south. The timing for these storms will come early to mid afternoon (noon-5 pm), before things begin quieting down tonight. Be weather aware today. The biggest concern areas are across the southern valley bordering Tennessee, where these counties have the best chance of seeing severe storms and possibly a few tornadoes. 

Breaking it down, showers are already beginning to edge in from the west this morning. The cold front is currently aligned across the west, working east with time. This will bring showers and storms, some of which will be strong and severe working through over the next several hours. The primary threat will be damaging wind gusts, but a few tornadoes (particularly across the southern parts of the area) are also a concern. Hail, to a lesser extent, is also possible. This will transition to a snow mix overnight and through Friday, where a Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the Smokies. Elsewhere little to no accumulations expected across the valley, but a light (up to an inch) possible in the plateau, foothills, and bordering KY counties. Flow from the northwest will allow for moisture to work off the Great Lakes and feed right across the area in the form of snow through Friday and into Friday night. Drier air returns into the weekend, with moderating temperatures into Martin Luther King Day.

I will emphasize the importance of our weather safety today. Know what to do, have, and where to go. This graphic below is an informative guide of things to have on hand if a severe thunderstorm or tornado warning is issued. Remember this as well: a watch means the environment is favorable for such while a warning means take immediate action. Stay safe and have a reliable source for alerts before, during, and after.