Gatlinburg, TN – Strong winds are forecast to sweep across the Smoky Mountains and foothill counties of East Tennessee tonight, with gusts up to 55 mph expected through early Sunday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, a Wind Advisory remains in effect from 5 p.m. Saturday to 7 a.m. Sunday for Blount, Sevier, Cocke, Monroe, Greene, Carter, and Unicoi Counties, including the communities of Gatlinburg, Cades Cove, Hartford, and Erwin.
Forecasters warn that south winds of 15 to 30 mph, with gusts reaching 45 to 55 mph, could cause downed tree limbs, scattered power outages, and make driving difficult in higher elevations and exposed foothill areas.
Travelers through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and adjacent scenic routes such as U.S. 441 (Newfound Gap Road) are urged to use caution, especially those driving high-profile vehicles. Outdoor items such as holiday decorations or patio furniture should be secured before winds increase this evening.
Winds are expected to ease Sunday morning as a front passes through the region.
For updated forecasts and advisories, visit weather.gov/mrx or follow the National Weather Service Morristown on social media.
