Nashville, Tenn. – Strong thunderstorms packing high winds and hail are sweeping across western and middle Tennessee this morning, with 17 counties under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 9 a.m. CDT Friday.
According to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center, the watch includes Montgomery, Obion, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, and Carroll counties, among others. The storms could bring wind gusts up to 60 mph, frequent lightning, and pockets of heavy rain, increasing the risk for downed trees and power outages.
Cities like Clarksville, Paris, and Dyersburg may see fast-moving storm cells before sunrise. Drivers on I-40, I-155, and Highway 79 should expect reduced visibility and slick roads through the early morning hours. Emergency managers advise securing outdoor items and avoiding unnecessary travel until storms move east.
This system marks the first widespread severe weather event in the region this week, following several days of rising humidity and unstable air. Residents are urged to charge mobile devices and monitor local alerts in case of sudden warnings.
Additional watches or warnings may be issued later this morning as the system continues eastward toward central Tennessee.
