NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Residents of Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky are advised to stay weather-ready this afternoon and evening as the region faces the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms. This has been designated as a First Alert Weather Day, with areas along and west of I-65 experiencing a level 2 out of 5 threat, while the remainder of the Midstate falls at a level 1 out of 5.
An isolated thunderstorm could develop early in the afternoon; however, the most critical time for severe weather is projected to take place between 4 p.m. and 11 p.m. The primary threats from potential storms include heavy rainfall and damaging winds. Residents should also be aware that small hail and isolated tornadoes cannot be ruled out.
Looking ahead, Monday will mark the first freeze of the season with morning temperatures dipping to around 30 degrees, but wind chill may make it feel colder, comparable to the high teens. Light snow flurries could also occur. Tuesday morning is anticipated to be even colder, with temperatures dropping into the 20s, suggesting a hard freeze across the Midstate.
As for the weekend forecast, Saturday is expected to start off variably cloudy and cool, with morning lows around 53 degrees. An isolated shower or thunderstorm might occur towards the evening, with only a 20% chance of rain and a projected high of 72 degrees. Saturday evening brings a 40% chance of showers or storms.
On Sunday, conditions are likely to turn breezy and chilly, with a morning low of 45 degrees and an afternoon high only reaching 48 degrees. The evening could bring snow flurries, especially along the Cumberland Plateau, as temperatures dip through the 30s and below freezing.
Next week promises to bring a drastic change in temperatures, with Monday feeling much colder as wind chills hover at or below freezing. However, a return to milder conditions is expected by Tuesday afternoon as temperatures rise into the 50s, and Wednesday could see highs around 69 degrees under sunny skies. Thursday is projected to mirror Wednesday’s warmth, reaching nearly 70 degrees.
It’s crucial for residents to remain informed and prepare for rapidly changing weather conditions in the coming days.