Arctic Air and Winter Weather Chill Tennessee This Weekend

News Summary

Tennessee is bracing for a chilly weekend ahead as an arctic air mass moves in, bringing freezing temperatures and potential snowflakes across the state. With a Cold Weather Advisory in effect, residents should prepare for dangerous wind chill values and possible travel disruptions. Nashville is expected to see some snow accumulation late Saturday, while other areas may experience mostly rain. Temperatures are predicted to remain below freezing for an extended period, prompting city officials to improve winter storm response efforts.

Arctic Air and Winter Weather Set to Chill Tennessee This Weekend

Things are about to get chilly in Tennessee! From Nashville to the Smoky Mountains, an arctic air mass has settled in, and it’s bringing more than just a brisk breeze this weekend. Residents are already under a Storm 5 Alert until noon today, so grab your warmest coat and get ready for a wild weather ride.

Snowflakes and Freezing Temperatures: What to Expect

While some areas in Tennessee can expect a light dusting of snow—around a half inch in most places and about an inch on the Plateau—the bigger story is the freezing temperatures and biting wind chills. Most folks will see temperatures hovering below freezing for more than 80 hours, lasting all the way until lunchtime on Wednesday. That kind of cold can bite!

As the temperatures dip into the single digits overnight, residents should brace themselves. Wind chill values will drop below zero particularly from Sunday night into Monday morning, making it feel even colder than it is. Don’t forget—there’s a Cold Weather Advisory in effect from 6 PM Sunday through noon Monday.

The Big Freeze Begins

This snowy weather comes on the heels of relatively mild temperatures we’ve enjoyed in the high 40s and low 50s leading up to the weekend. But hold onto your hats! Rain is forecast to move into Middle Tennessee on Friday evening, transitioning into snow late Saturday night and into Sunday morning. Most precipitation will likely be rain, with the chance of some flurries making an appearance as temperatures plunge.

East Tennessee may see some snowflakes, but the Knoxville area is expected to be rain-dominated, with no significant snow accumulation expected. Meanwhile, over in western Tennessee, locals can enjoy fairly sunny conditions with highs in the mid to low 50s—at least—before a dramatic drop to a mere 31 degrees is expected on Sunday. Burrr!

Chilly Days Ahead

The cold air isn’t just a weekend affair. Tennesseans can expect low temperatures in the 20s and highs lingering around the 30s for the week following this weekend. There’s also some buzz about a potential winter weather system developing to the west and south midweek next week that could impact southeastern Tennessee, though it’s a bit too early to know precisely how much snow or rain may fall.

Road Conditions May Deteriorate

As snow is predicted to begin in the Nashville area as early as Friday morning, drivers should tread lightly on the roads as conditions are likely to deteriorate quickly. Everyone needs to keep safety first, especially considering that previous winter storms have caused quite the ruckus on the roads.

Better Prepared for Winter Weather?

City officials have taken note of prior winter weather challenges, with Nashville’s leadership promising to improve storm response this year. This includes increasing the number of snowplows in the city from 28 to 40 to tackle the ice and snow more effectively. Step up for safety!

So, whether you love a good snowflake or prefer to stay warm and cozy indoors, the upcoming weather is sure to keep us all on our toes. Get ready, Tennessee! Winter is knocking at the door this weekend, and it looks like it’s here to stay for a little while.