Weather
Tennessee Cold Weather: Nashville Faces 2 Dangerous Winter 2026/27 Risks
Nashville, TN – As Tennessee prepares for the approaching winter season, residents across Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga and communities throughout the Volunteer State are being reminded o
By Erin Vale · 2026-11-04T16:47:13.345Z
Nashville, TN – As Tennessee prepares for the approaching winter season, residents across Nashville, Memphis, Knoxville, Chattanooga and communities throughout the Volunteer State are being reminded of two potentially life threatening cold weather conditions: frostbite and hypothermia. Although both develop from exposure to cold, they affect the body differently and can become serious medical emergencies.
According to the National Weather Service, dressing in layers, covering exposed skin and limiting time outdoors can help prevent cold related injuries. Strong winds, wet clothing and prolonged exposure can increase the danger, particularly during Tennessee's colder winter months.
Frostbite vs. Hypothermia: What's the Difference?
Frostbite occurs when skin and underlying tissues freeze, most commonly affecting fingers, toes, ears, noses and other exposed areas.
Early warning signs include numbness, tingling, unusual skin discoloration and skin that feels hard or waxy. Severe frostbite can cause permanent tissue damage.
Hypothermia, meanwhile, develops when the body's core temperature drops below 95 degrees Fahrenheit.
Symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, confusion, slurred speech, extreme fatigue and poor coordination. In severe cases, shivering may stop, signaling a potentially life threatening emergency.
Why Tennessee Residents Should Pay Attention
Tennessee's Great Smoky Mountains, Cumberland Plateau and lower elevation communities can experience significantly different winter conditions.
Higher elevations frequently experience colder temperatures, while strong winds, freezing rain and wet clothing can accelerate heat loss throughout the state.
Hypothermia can develop even when temperatures remain above freezing, particularly during prolonged exposure to cold rain or damp conditions.
What Should Residents Do?
Anyone showing signs of hypothermia needs immediate medical attention. Call 911, move the person indoors, remove wet clothing and wrap them in dry blankets while awaiting emergency assistance.
For suspected frostbite, avoid rubbing affected skin or applying direct heat. Seek medical attention promptly.
Residents should also check on older adults, protect pets and prepare emergency supplies for winter travel.
The critical difference: Frostbite freezes and damages body tissue, while hypothermia dangerously lowers internal body temperature. Both conditions can occur simultaneously.