Nashville, Tennessee – A prolonged and dangerous stretch of winter cold is underway across Middle Tennessee, with freezing temperatures lasting more than a day and bitter wind chills dipping below zero. The cold settles in overnight and holds through late Monday morning, creating risks for people, pets, and plumbing.
The most impactful period arrives late tonight into Sunday morning. Wind chills are expected to fall as low as 3 below zero around daybreak Sunday, with temperatures remaining below freezing for roughly 36 straight hours. Cold conditions persist through Sunday night, with single-digit lows possible early Monday before gradual improvement by midday.
According to the National Weather Service office in Nashville, a Cold Weather Advisory is now in effect from midnight tonight through noon CST Monday for all of Middle Tennessee. Counties included span Davidson, Williamson, Rutherford, Sumner, Wilson, Montgomery, Robertson, Maury, Coffee, Putnam, and surrounding areas. Cities feeling the brunt include Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, Brentwood, Hendersonville, Gallatin, Lebanon, Columbia, Cookeville, and Tullahoma.
Travel during early morning hours Sunday and Monday will be marked by biting cold along I-40, I-24, I-65, and I-840, especially for anyone dealing with vehicle issues or waiting at bus stops. According to emergency management officials, residents should limit time outdoors, wear layered clothing with hats and gloves, and fully cover exposed skin. Even short exposure can become hazardous in these conditions.
Extended freezing raises the risk of burst pipes. Residents are urged to wrap exposed plumbing, allow faucets to drip, and open cabinet doors where pipes are vulnerable. Pets should be brought indoors, and neighbors who are elderly or without reliable heat should be checked on. Space heaters should be used safely and kept clear of flammable materials.
Temperatures begin a slow rebound Monday afternoon, but winter cold remains entrenched into midweek.
