Nashville, Tenn. – A tornado watch is now in effect for 44 counties across central and eastern Tennessee, including Nashville, Chattanooga and Cookeville, with the greatest risk for severe storms extending through 10 p.m. Tuesday.
According to the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center, Tornado Watch 305 covers a broad swath of the state, including Davidson, Hamilton, Rutherford, Maury, Sumner and Wilson counties. Damaging wind gusts, large hail, and isolated tornadoes are possible as storms rapidly intensify through the evening.
Cities like Murfreesboro, Columbia, and Crossville could see rotation in fast-moving storm cells. Parts of I-24 and I-40 may become hazardous as visibility drops and strong gusts whip through Middle Tennessee. Local emergency officials are urging residents to charge phones, secure loose items outdoors, and review shelter plans now — not later.
If you’re in a mobile home or vehicle, have a solid shelter identified. Sirens may sound only when tornadoes are confirmed, so rely on multiple alerts. Some high school sports events and evening activities may be canceled or delayed.
The watch remains active through 10 p.m., with updates expected if additional warnings are issued. Stay weather-aware as storms sweep east into the overnight hours.
