Nashville, Tennessee – Prolonged freezing temperatures and low snow chances are expected to impact Middle Tennessee beginning Friday, increasing travel and safety concerns across major roadways.
According to the National Weather Service Nashville, another surge of Arctic air will move into the region Friday and persist through the weekend, bringing approximately 60 to 70 consecutive hours of below-freezing temperatures. Overnight lows are forecast to fall into the single digits, with wind chills dropping below zero at times.
While widespread snowfall is not expected, forecasters note a 30–50% chance of a light dusting across the Cumberland Plateau and a 10–30% chance of at least 0.5 inches of snow from Friday into Saturday morning. Even minimal accumulation could create slick spots on untreated roads, particularly along Interstates 40, 65, and 24, as well as elevated surfaces such as bridges and overpasses.
The snow threat remains categorized as low, but officials stress that cold temperatures alone can create hazardous travel conditions. Accumulation, if it occurs, is most likely on grassy and elevated surfaces rather than primary roadways, though refreezing overnight could worsen conditions.
The National Weather Service urges residents to dress for the cold, bring pets indoors, and protect exposed pipes. Officials warn that the prolonged cold could become life-threatening for individuals without reliable heat or power.
Daytime highs are expected to struggle to reach freezing through Monday before temperatures gradually moderate early next week.
The cold snap may disrupt weekend travel and commuting, particularly for young workers and students returning early Monday morning, as icy patches could linger during peak travel hours.
Residents are advised to monitor official forecasts and road conditions and limit unnecessary travel during overnight and early morning periods.
