Knoxville, Tennessee – A widespread Winter Storm Warning is set to impact East Tennessee and nearby Southwest Virginia, with accumulating snow and gusty winds likely to create dangerous travel from Friday afternoon through early Sunday.
Snow is expected to develop Friday afternoon, intensifying into Friday evening and overnight. Accumulations of 2 to 5 inches are expected across the Knoxville metro and surrounding counties, with higher totals of 3 to 7 inches common across northeast Tennessee and locally up to 10 inches over the higher elevations of the Smoky Mountains. Winds may gust as high as 35 mph, increasing blowing snow and reducing visibility at times.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, the most hazardous travel conditions are expected during the Friday evening commute and again Saturday as steady snow continues. Major routes including I-40, I-81, I-26, and U.S. 441 through the mountains may become snow-covered and slick, especially during periods of heavier snowfall.
Mountain communities such as Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and areas near Great Smoky Mountains National Park could see rapidly changing conditions, with snow-packed roads and reduced visibility. According to TDOT and VDOT, motorists should be prepared for delays, reduced speeds, and possible temporary road closures in higher terrain.
Residents are urged to complete travel and errands before conditions deteriorate Friday afternoon. If travel is unavoidable, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle with food, water, a flashlight, and warm clothing. Power interruptions are possible in isolated areas where snow and wind stress trees and lines.
Winter Storm Warnings remain in effect through early Sunday, with lingering slick spots likely into Sunday morning as temperatures stay cold.
