Chattanooga, Tenn. – Drivers and early commuters across Hamilton County face frost-covered windshields and potential slick spots by 3 a.m. Tuesday as temperatures plunge to 28°F, creating a brief but impactful freeze across southeast Tennessee.
According to Hamilton County Emergency Management, a Freeze Watch remains in effect from 2 a.m. until 10 a.m. Tuesday, with sub-freezing temperatures expected to settle across Chattanooga and surrounding communities before sunrise. The cold snap could impact untreated bridges and elevated roadways, especially along I-24, I-75, and Highway 27.
The biggest concern centers on sensitive vegetation and early spring planting. Residents in areas like East Ridge, Red Bank, and Soddy-Daisy are urged to cover plants overnight or bring them indoors. Even a few hours at 28°F can damage or kill new growth.
Morning routines may also slow down. Frost buildup on vehicles could delay travel, and patchy slick spots may develop on overpasses, particularly in low-traffic areas where road temperatures drop faster.
Utility demand may spike briefly as heating systems cycle on during the coldest hours, though widespread outages are not expected.
Conditions will improve quickly after 10 a.m. Tuesday as temperatures climb above freezing, but additional advisories could follow if another cold surge develops later this week.
