Morristown, Tennessee – A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect from Saturday morning through Sunday evening for large portions of east Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and far southwest North Carolina, with a dangerous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain expected.
According to the National Weather Service in Morristown, snow accumulations of up to 3 inches are possible, along with ice accumulations ranging from one-quarter to one-half inch. The highest snowfall totals are expected in higher elevations of southwest Virginia and near the Tennessee–Kentucky border, while the greatest ice accumulations are likely along the Cumberland Plateau, northeast Tennessee, the mountains, and areas just north of Interstates 40 and 81.
Forecasters warn that roads—especially bridges and overpasses—are likely to become slick and hazardous as precipitation develops. Ice accumulation of this magnitude could lead to widespread power outages and tree damage, making travel nearly impossible at times.
Snow and ice amounts are expected to vary significantly by location, with more limited snow accumulations farther south. Officials emphasize that this is a complicated forecast, and small changes in storm track or temperature could significantly alter impacts.
The watch includes major population centers such as Knoxville, Chattanooga, Johnson City, Kingsport, Cleveland, and surrounding communities. Hazardous conditions could develop quickly once freezing precipitation begins.
Residents are urged to closely monitor forecast updates over the next 24 hours as details become clearer. Officials recommend preparing now for possible extended power outages, securing essential supplies, and delaying non-essential travel during the storm.
Commuters, mountain communities, and weekend travelers across the region should be prepared for rapidly changing and potentially severe winter weather conditions.
