Knoxville, Tennessee – A prolonged winter storm is set to create hazardous travel conditions across East Tennessee and nearby mountain communities beginning Friday afternoon, with snow-covered roads and difficult driving expected through early Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for much of East Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and parts of western North Carolina. Snow is expected to begin Friday afternoon, impacting the Friday evening commute, and continue into the weekend. Widespread snow totals of 4 to 6 inches are expected across the Knoxville area, Morristown, Jefferson City, and surrounding counties, while higher elevations in the Smoky Mountains could see 8 to 12 inches.
Mountain counties including Sevier, Blount, Carter, Johnson, and Unicoi face the greatest risk for heavy snow and difficult travel, especially along U.S. 441 through the Smokies and secondary mountain roads. Gusty winds up to 35 mph may cause blowing snow and further reduce visibility at times.
Farther north, parts of southwest Virginia including Wise, Russell, Scott, and Washington counties are also under warnings, with several inches of snow likely to create slick conditions on I-81 and local roads. In southern areas such as Loudon, Union, and Claiborne counties, lighter totals of 2 to 4 inches are still expected to cause travel issues.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, prepare emergency supplies, and monitor road conditions through 511 services. Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect through early Sunday, with lingering impacts expected even after snowfall tapers off.
