Maryville, Tennessee – Hazardous road conditions are being reported across Blount County Sunday morning, prompting deputies to urge residents to stay off roadways unless travel is absolutely necessary.
According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, patrol supervisors observed poor and dangerous road conditions throughout the county early Sunday, with snow and lingering winter weather creating slick surfaces on both primary and secondary roads. Officials say travel should be avoided if possible until conditions improve later today.
Drivers who must travel are advised to reduce speed, increase following distance, and allow extra stopping room, especially on untreated or shaded roadways. The sheriff’s office also recommends keeping an emergency kit in vehicles, including blankets, extra clothing, food, and water, in case motorists become stranded.
Deputies remain actively patrolling roadways across the county; however, officials warn that response times may be longer than usual if crashes occur due to high call volume and ongoing road hazards. Residents are asked to use caution and only call for assistance when necessary.
The most impacted travel corridors include U.S. Highway 129, U.S. Highway 321, U.S. Highway 411, State Route 73, and connecting county roads, particularly in higher elevations and rural areas where snow and ice persist.
The sheriff’s office noted that some improvement is possible later Sunday as sunshine returns, which may help initiate gradual melting. Until then, residents are encouraged to remain at home and enjoy the snow safely from their neighborhoods rather than venturing onto hazardous roads.
Sunday morning conditions may particularly affect commuters, healthcare workers, and service employees who typically travel during early hours.
Officials urge continued patience and caution as winter conditions slowly ease across Blount County.
