Knoxville woke up to air so thick you could almost drink it on Thursday, July 16, with McGhee Tyson starting around 73°F and dewpoints in the low 70s. The atmosphere was already close to saturated before sunrise, and it is only going to get hotter. Highs are expected to reach near 91°F this afternoon, with humidity pushing the heat index into the low 100s.
Afternoon Conditions
Mostly sunny skies are on tap this afternoon with a high near 91°F and a heat index that could climb to about 102°F. Winds will be light, so there will not be much relief. The best shot at a stray shower or thunderstorm is south of I-40, while downtown and north-side neighborhoods are likely to stay dry. According to NWS Morristown, the risk of severe weather or flooding is very low today, although in mid-July it is rarely zero.
This Evening And Overnight
Tonight brings only a slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before about 5 a.m., with lows near 74°F and sticky humidity hanging around. Most spots should stay dry, but any late-night storms that do pop up could bring brief heavy downpours and frequent lightning. If you are out late or up early, it is worth a quick radar check before you hit the road.
Weekend Outlook
The weather pattern starts to shift on Friday and through the weekend as the ridge weakens and several rounds of showers and thunderstorms become more likely, especially Friday night into Saturday and again on Sunday. Deep moisture will be streaming in, with precipitable water values rising to around two inches, which means storms that do form could be strong and dump heavy rain in a hurry. Localized flooding is possible in low-lying urban spots. Forecasters at NWS Morristown recommend keeping a close eye on updated weekend forecasts and being ready to flex those outdoor plans if storms move in.
Plan Ahead
If you have outdoor events lined up, treat this afternoon like a classic Tennessee heat day. Hydrate, take breaks, and try to move the hardest work into the morning. If you see lightning or hear thunder, head for shelter immediately. For those who need a break from the heat, several local cooling centers and libraries extend hours during heat events. Check local listings or call 2-1-1 for up-to-date information. For a local rundown of cooling centers and related resources, see WVLT.
