Knoxville residents should brace for a wet and blustery few days as forecasters predict showers, thunderstorms, and gusty winds through the upcoming weekend. According to the National Weather Service (NWS), there's a 50 percent chance of rain today and a stronger likelihood of precipitation – 60 percent – as night falls, with thunderstorms on the horizon after 4 a.m.

While today's high might hover around a comfy 77 degrees, residents are warned to be cautious as the rainy spell continues into the night. The NWS anticipates "new rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms," helping to cap off a drizzly day. Thunderstorms are forecast to amp up tomorrow, with a nearly certain 90 percent chance of showers and potential storms forecast. If that's not enough, the winds are expected to be breezy with southeast wind 15 to 20 mph, which could kick up to as high as 35 mph gusts in the afternoon.

The wet weather is part of a "strong weather system" moving across the region, as per the Hazardous Weather Outlook issued early this morning by the National Weather Service Morristown TN. This system will bring not only rain and storms but also "localized flooding," which could be a concern for areas receiving multiple heavy downpours.

Moreover, the outlook cautions about "strong southeast winds to the higher terrain of the East Tennessee mountains beginning tonight." A high wind warning has been issued to address this impending turbulence. Come Thursday through to Tuesday, Knoxville's forecast includes continued showers and thunderstorms, with certain storms possibly escalating to severe levels.

Friday will dial down the drama slightly, though there's still a 20 percent chance of showers on a mostly sunny day with a high near 64 degrees. The wind, however, continues to blow strong with 15 to 25 mph southwest gusts howling as high as 35 mph. The gusts are promising to persist into Friday night, before the weather finally calms down over the weekend with clear skies forecast for Saturday night.

For the latest updates on the impending hazardous weather conditions, Knoxville residents can turn to the NWS website, ensuring they stay informed and prepared for whatever the skies may bring.