Nashville, TN – As the Christmas season continues and a powerful Arctic blast spreads across the country, Tennessee is bracing for a weekend of freezing temperatures, snow flurries, and potentially icy roads. Forecasts show lows in the teens across middle and eastern Tennessee, with wind chills dipping below zero in higher elevations of the Smoky Mountains.
The same Arctic air mass has plunged much of the nation into deep winter conditions. Even Florida was under a Freeze Warning Friday morning, showing how far this cold front has reached. For Tennessee, the combination of below-freezing temperatures, gusty winds, and possible snowfall will create difficult travel conditions just as Christmas season travel hits its stride.
Emergency officials urge all motorists to prepare their vehicles before heading out. A complete winter car kit should include bottled water, snacks, blankets, gloves, jumper cables, and a flashlight. A shovel, traction aids such as sand or cat litter, and a phone charger are also essential. Keeping at least half a tank of gas helps maintain heat and prevents frozen fuel lines if stuck.
Drivers using I-40, I-24, and I-65 should plan for slower travel times, especially overnight when icy patches are most common. The Tennessee Department of Transportation recommends checking travel conditions, allowing extra time, and maintaining a safe distance from plows and other drivers.
As Arctic air grips the South and Christmas travel increases, preparation is critical. Taking just a few minutes to stock your car and monitor the forecast could help ensure a safe trip home for the holidays — no matter how far the temperature drops.
