The National Weather Service in Morristown has issued a wind advisory for the East Tennessee region, including the cities of Knoxville, Chattanooga, and several parts of Southwest Virginia and Southwest North Carolina, effective from this morning until Sunday morning. According to the NWS forecast, residents can expect south winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. These conditions pose a risk of blowing around unsecured objects and potentially causing tree limbs to be blown down, with the chance of ensuing power outages.
Alongside the advisory, a hazardous weather outlook has been communicated, noting that high winds will persist with speeds possibly reaching up to 80 mph in elevated areas this evening, This will also raise concerns for the spread of any ongoing wildfires in the region, the outlook states. The advisory remains particularly critical given the Red Flag Warning in effect through late this evening due to the combination of very strong winds and dry fuels that could exacerbate fire hazards. There is an elevated threat for flash flooding, especially west of Interstate 75, brought on by anticipated moderate to heavy rainfall in the mountains this evening and overnight.
In terms of severe weather, parts of East Tennessee, particularly along the Cumberland Plateau, southeast Tennessee, and southwest North Carolina, are bracing for what could be a significant severe weather outbreak. Widespread and significant damaging winds are expected, with a potential threat of tornadoes and large hail, warns the National Weather Service Morristown TN. The potential for bad weather has necessitated a call to action for weather spotters, who may be crucial in providing reports during the weekend's expected severe thunderstorms and flash flooding.
Although inclement weather is expected soon, the forecast for the coming days indicates calmer conditions. Once the current warnings and advisories expire, no hazardous weather is anticipated for the rest of the week. Sunday is expected to be cloudy with highs near 69 degrees and breezy conditions, while Monday is forecasted to be clear and sunny, with daytime temperatures reaching the mid-50s.
