Morristown, TN – A High Wind Warning remains in effect for parts of eastern Tennessee, including the Smoky Mountains region, until 8 a.m. EDT Sunday. Strong south winds of 25 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching up to 80 mph, are expected to cause widespread power outages and hazardous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, the warning affects multiple counties, including Johnson, Cocke Smoky Mountains, Southeast Greene, Unicoi, Southeast Carter, Blount Smoky Mountains, Sevier Smoky Mountains, Southeast Monroe, and East Polk. Residents in cities such as Gatlinburg, Mountain City, and Erwin should prepare for strong winds and possible downed power lines.
Authorities warn that the high winds may bring down trees and power lines, leading to significant power disruptions. Travel, especially for high-profile vehicles, will be challenging due to strong gusts. Additionally, ongoing wildfires could spread rapidly before expected heavy rains arrive Saturday evening.
Residents are urged to remain indoors, stay in lower levels of their homes, and avoid windows during the storm. Drivers should exercise extreme caution on the roads. Emergency crews are on standby to respond to power outages and storm-related incidents.
