Middle Tennessee is bracing for a shift in weather as cold rain is expected to transition into light snow on January 16. According to the National Weather Service, the Cumberland Plateau could see up to half an inch of snowfall, though little accumulation is anticipated throughout the rest of the region.
Rain is forecasted to continue throughout the afternoon and into the evening of January 16, with the possibility of a snow mix occurring between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. After 9 p.m., mainly snow will take over, particularly affecting the plateau area where light snow accumulation is possible until about 2 a.m. Current estimates suggest that only the upper elevations may receive up to 0.50 inches, while most locales can expect little to no accumulation.
Following this precipitation, a cold and dry weekend is on the horizon. The National Weather Service highlights that temperatures are expected to drop significantly, with the potential for single-digit lows in certain areas east of Lebanon. Highs during the weekend will only reach the 30s, particularly colder on January 19.
The National Weather Service has provided a detailed forecast for the upcoming days. January 17 is expected to be partly sunny, with highs reaching around 42 degrees and lows dipping to 18. The colder weather will persist, with January 19 predicted to be especially chilly, featuring a high of only 35 degrees followed by a cold night with lows around 13 degrees.
In the days following, temperatures will gradually rise, with January 20 expected to see a high near 38 and lows around 24. The forecast for January 21 indicates mostly sunny conditions with highs near 51 and a chance of light sprinkles, while January 22 could bring more clouds and a 30% chance of showers.
With winter setting in across Middle Tennessee, residents are advised to prepare for colder temperatures and possible icy conditions. While the snow may not lead to significant accumulation, its arrival signals the deepening winter weather for the area.