Middle Tennessee is set to receive much-anticipated rainfall, characterized by the National Weather Service as a “much-needed, soaking rain.” However, this weather system also brings some risks, including potential severe thunderstorms.
A cold front is expected to sweep through the region on the evening of October 18 and into the morning of October 19, leading to a line of showers and thunderstorms. According to the National Weather Service in Nashville, “some of the storms could be strong to severe, mainly along and west of I-65.” The primary concern is strong winds, although the possibility of tornadoes cannot be discounted.
Rainfall amounts are projected to vary, with some areas along the Cumberland Plateau receiving around three-quarters of an inch and southern and western regions around Nashville potentially seeing over an inch of rain. Rain is likely to persist in the forecast on October 19 as the cold front continues moving through the area.
In the wake of the cold front, temperatures are expected to take a noticeable dip starting Sunday, with widespread nighttime lows in the 40s throughout much of the following week. There are indications of a secondary cold front moving across the mid-state on Tuesday, which is likely to reinforce these cooler temperatures. The National Weather Service mentioned that for the first time in a while, the 6-10 day outlook suggests a transition to normal to below-normal temperatures in Middle Tennessee, along with below-normal rainfall levels.
The upcoming week’s forecast for Nashville shows a slight chance of showers and varying high temperatures. For October 17, a warm day is predicted with a high near 83, followed by sunny skies on October 18 and a high of around 87 before storms arrive overnight. On October 19, there’s a 30% chance of rain early on, with temperatures cooling to a high of 69. The temperature will continue to moderate with highs fluctuating between the low 70s and lows in the 40s through the week.
As Middle Tennessee braces for this weather shift, residents can be hopeful that this rain will help alleviate dryness in the area while staying prepared for the threats that potentially accompany thunderstorms.