East Tennessee and Southwest Virginia – Snowfall in the higher terrain is expected to create hazardous travel conditions through early Saturday, as a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect across the southern Appalachian region.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, the advisory continues until 7 a.m. Saturday for portions of the east Tennessee mountains and southwest Virginia.
Forecasters expect 2 to 4 inches of snow at elevations above 2,500 feet, with 6 to 8 inches possible on the highest mountain peaks, generally above 5,000 feet. Lower elevations may see lesser amounts, but cold temperatures will allow snow to accumulate on untreated surfaces.
The advisory area includes mountainous portions of Johnson, Unicoi, Greene, Carter, Cocke, Blount, and Sevier counties in Tennessee, as well as Wise, Russell, and Washington counties in Virginia. Impacted communities include Mountain City, Gatlinburg, Erwin, Unicoi, Hampton, Bristol, Abingdon, Wise, Big Stone Gap, and Norton.
Road conditions are expected to become slick and hazardous, particularly on mountain roads, passes, and higher-elevation routes. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute, especially where snowfall intensifies after sunset.
Gusty winds may accompany the snowfall, increasing the risk of downed tree branches and localized travel disruptions in exposed areas.
Residents and travelers are urged to slow down and use caution while traveling, allow extra stopping distance, and remain alert for changing road conditions. Drivers should be especially cautious in mountainous terrain where snow accumulations will be greatest.
Motorists can check the latest roadway conditions by calling 511 in Tennessee or Virginia.
Snowfall is expected to taper off by early Saturday morning as the advisory expires, with gradual improvement in travel conditions later in the day.
