A fast-moving thunderstorm tore across parts of East Tennessee on Monday evening, soaking communities from Lenoir City through Oak Ridge into the Knoxville metro and putting the evening drive on edge. Torrential rain and gusty winds raised the risk of localized street flooding and downed branches, and officials urged residents to head indoors and steer clear of flooded roads. The storm was reported to be tracking northeast at roughly 40 mph as it pushed through the region.
Officials' warnings
The Anderson County Emergency Management Agency reported that radar showed the storm had already swept over Lenoir City and would affect south-central Anderson, northeastern Loudon, western Knox, northwestern Blount, and east-central Roane counties through 5:15 p.m. EDT. The agency warned that wind gusts could top 30 mph, with torrential rain capable of triggering localized street flooding, and it urged residents to stay inside and avoid driving through standing water, according to the Anderson County Emergency Management Agency.
National Weather Service outlook
The National Weather Service office in Morristown expected periods of showers and thunderstorms to continue through Monday evening, noting that some storms could be strong to severe with damaging winds as the main threat, and localized flash flooding also possible. Forecasters also asked trained spotters to report any flooding or wind damage as the line moved northeast, according to the National Weather Service Morristown.
How to stay safe
County officials cautioned drivers not to attempt crossing flooded roads under any circumstances and urged anyone caught outside to move into a sturdy building until the storm passes. Residents were also advised to keep children and pets away from flooded streets, secure loose outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds, and closely watch official channels for new alerts or upgraded warnings.
For the latest forecasts and any watches or warnings that follow, check the National Weather Service Morristown and the Anderson County Emergency Management Agency Facebook feed for updates. Both sources will post new information if storms intensify or if any alerts are upgraded to more serious warnings.
