Montgomery County is under a severe thunderstorm watch this Thursday afternoon as a line of fast-moving storms rolls across Middle Tennessee. City officials warn the setup could bring damaging wind and hail tonight and are urging residents to be ready to head for shelter if warnings start popping up.
What the watch covers
The watch, designated WS 438 by the Storm Prediction Center, is in effect until 8 p.m. CDT and includes Montgomery County along with dozens of other Middle Tennessee counties, according to the National Weather Service. The NWS product lists all affected counties and advises people to keep an eye on updated warnings through the evening.
Storms moving through and local impacts
Thunderstorms were already moving into Clarksville this afternoon, with local coverage and spotters reporting scattered downed limbs and isolated power outages as crews worked their way around the city, according to ClarksvilleNow. The outlet noted that utility crews were tracking outages on the city's northwest side and urged residents to stay clear of any fallen lines.
City officials urge residents to be ready
The City of Clarksville used Facebook to urge residents to be prepared to seek shelter if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. The post noted that Clarksville Fire Rescue, the Street Department, the Police Department, and CDE Lightband are all monitoring conditions. Officials also encouraged people to secure loose outdoor items before storms roll through and to check on neighbors who might need a hand.
How to stay safe
If severe weather approaches, residents are advised to move to an interior room on the lowest floor, stay away from windows, and avoid driving through flooded roadways. The National Weather Service recommends turning on wireless emergency alerts, keeping a battery-powered radio or a fully charged phone nearby, and following instructions from local emergency officials. Call 911 only for life-threatening situations.
