Knoxville woke up under a blanket of low clouds Thursday, with temperatures near 28°F and the last of the light snow fizzling out before sunrise. The catch: leftover moisture on cold pavement is setting the stage for patchy black ice on untreated roads and overpasses during the morning commute. The city should thaw out later, with highs near 38°F by mid- to late afternoon, before temperatures slide back into the mid-20s overnight.
Morning Commute: Watch For Sneaky Slick Spots
That light snow may be wrapping up, but it is leaving behind some trouble spots. Residual snow and freezing pavement could mean slick patches on secondary streets, bridges and overpasses through the morning hours. The National Weather Service in Morristown flagged light snow accumulations and patchy black ice in a Special Weather Statement early Thursday and urged drivers to slow down and stay alert, according to NWS Morristown. If you have to be on the road, give yourself extra time, increase following distance and go easy on the brakes, especially on ramps, overpasses and shaded sections.
Afternoon Melt And A Chilly Friday Night Twist
By Thursday afternoon, highs should top out near 38°F with a light northwest breeze helping along the melt. Tonight, temperatures are expected to fall back to around 25°F. On Friday, a stronger southerly flow returns, nudging daytime highs into the upper 40s but also kicking up gusty southwest winds that could reach around 25 mph.
Another push of colder air Friday night could flip the script again, with a brief window where rain changes to snow in the higher elevations. The eastern Tennessee mountains stand the best chance of seeing measurable snowfall, along with ridge-top gusts that could approach 40 mph. If you are planning a Friday night run into the hills, factor in the wind and the possibility of quick-hitting snow showers.
Warming Centers And Help Getting There
Local warming centers will open as needed, with activation details and site locations posted on the city’s winter-weather page. Knoxville Area Transit may provide rides to warming centers when they are operating, according to city information. For the latest locations, volunteer needs or to request assistance, check the warming-center page at City of Knoxville or call 311. Community partners are coordinating donations and shelter space ahead of the colder nights.
Bottom line: take it slow on untreated roads this morning, enjoy the afternoon thaw, and keep an eye on Friday night conditions if you are headed for the mountains. Updates will follow if any advisories or travel impacts change.
