Knoxville is gearing up for a major winter storm that could bring heavy snowfall and significant icing this weekend, according to the National Weather Service in Morristown. A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from late tomorrow night through Sunday evening, with total snow accumulations of up to 6 inches expected north of Knoxville and potential ice accumulations between one tenth and one quarter of an inch. The NWS warns of likely "power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice" and suggests that "travel could be nearly impossible."
As the system moves in, complexities in the weather pattern may lead to mixed precipitation, and the precise locations of the heaviest snowfall and freezing rain totals are still uncertain, with updates to the forecast expected as the situation develops. The Hazardous Weather Outlook issued by the NWS outlines potential light snow mixed with rain over high terrain today, very light accumulations if any, but the imminent winter storm has the potential for greater impact as colder air clashes with southern warm fronts.
Tomorrow may see a mostly cloudy sky, with a high near 44 degrees, but as the storm progresses, the NWS is tracking a potential for strong mountain winds on Saturday into Sunday. Although the strength of these winds remains uncertain, shifts in weather patterns suggest a robust southerly flow during this period, which could further complicate conditions on the ground.
