As of 5:40 a.m. CDT Thursday, Nashville is starting off mostly clear, muggy, and warm, with temperatures close to 73°F and dewpoints hovering near 70°F. Patchy fog will build into low-lying spots through the morning commute and could trim visibility for drivers. By this afternoon, highs head for the low 90s; the heat index may push up to 101°F, and scattered storms are on the table as rain chances grow into the weekend.
Foggy Morning Commute
Patchy, at times dense, fog is the main early hazard, especially in river valleys and along the Cumberland through about 8 a.m. CDT. Drivers should slow down and pad in extra commute time; visibility may dip below a quarter mile at times, according to NWS Nashville. Keep headlights on low beam, watch for slow or stalled vehicles, and be alert for standing water on low-lying roads.
Afternoon Heat And Storm Threat
This afternoon turns hot and humid, with a high near 91°F and heat index readings that can make it feel like the low 100s in spots. There is roughly a 30–40% chance of showers and thunderstorms, and new rainfall amounts of about a tenth to a quarter of an inch are possible where storms pop up. Any storm that develops could bring heavy downpours and strong wind gusts, so outdoor plans should come with a quick indoor backup option.
Weekend Outlook
Rain and storm chances ramp up through Saturday and into Sunday as a weak upper disturbance and a surface trough provide added lift to the atmosphere. Saturday is shaping up as the most favorable day for more widespread showers and thunderstorms, with pockets of heavier rain and gusty wind possible into Saturday night. Temperatures trend higher into early next week, with highs in the low to mid 90s and humidity keeping heat index values on the elevated side.
How To Stay Safe
Give yourself extra time on the roads this morning and use low beams in fog, and never drive through flooded roads, even if they look shallow. Stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the peak heat of the afternoon, and check local cooling options; the city shares heat response and cooling information through the Nashville Office of Emergency Management. If a thunderstorm moves in, head indoors right away and avoid open fields and tall objects.
