For those hitting the road this weekend in East Tennessee, take note: a massive transport is on the move, and it's going to slow things down. Starting Sunday evening, June 30, a behemoth of an oversized load will lumber its way from Morgan County to Sullivan County, prompting road activity alerts and potential travel delays. The moving window is nightly from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m., spanning both June 30 and July 1, so plan accordingly.

The load, as reported by the Tennessee Department of Transportation, measures up hefty at 20 feet wide, 229 feet long, 17 feet tall, and tipping the scales at about 410,000 pounds. Motorists should expect some accompaniment of traffic on these roads by Tennessee Highway Patrol officers, who will be providing the necessary escort for this oversized shipment.

Drivers should familiarize themselves with the designated route for the oversized load, which includes a series of crossovers and state roads through multiple counties. The trek starts on US 27S in Oakdale, encompasses SR 61E, and winds through Oak Ridge, Bean Station, Church Hill, and finally, Kingsport. It's a dance of logistics that, while executed mostly at night, could still bring lingering effects into the daylight hours.

Navigating through this transport's planned route won't be a breeze. Travelers are advised to expect delays and are urged to use extreme caution around these areas, given the presence of workers and the size of the load maneuvering through the terrain. Should the weather turn foul, there's a chance the schedule might shift, so keeping an eye on the skies wouldn't hurt either.

The Department of Transportation stresses the importance of being informed before hitting the road. Motorists are encouraged to "Know Before You Go!" by checking travel conditions ahead of time. And, despite the distraction a 410,000 pound load might present, drivers are reminded to steer clear of cell phones for tweeting, texting, or talking while driving, ensuring everyone's safety on these affected roads.