Storms could start as early as 9 p.m. and end as late as 6 a.m. on May 17.
What’s the weather like in Knoxville, Tennessee?
What’s the weather like in Knoxville, Tennessee? Learn about the average monthly temperatures and how much it rains each year.
- There is a possibility on severe weather in East Tennessee on May 16.
You may need to move your Friday night plans indoors.
Knoxville and East Tennessee will likely see severe weather on the evening of May 16. The storms are expected to continue overnight and end around 4 a.m. on May 17.
Afternoon storms are also possible for communities in northeast Tennessee. A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for these northeast communities. The watch will be in place until 6 p.m. on May 16.
Large hail, an isolated tornado and damaging straight-line winds of up to 70 miles per hour are possible, according to the National Weather Service.
Here’s what you need to know to stay safe.
When could there be severe weather in Knoxville, East Tennessee?
Communities like Sunbright and La Follette will be the first to see severe weather. The storm could start as early as 9 p.m. in these locations and last as late as 4 a.m. on May 17.
The majority of East Tennessee, including Knoxville, Kingsport and Pikeville, will most likely see severe weather between 1-3 a.m., according to the National Weather Service. However, storms could start as early as 11 p.m. and finish as late at 5 a.m.
Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, Mountain City and Tennessee’s easternmost communities will be the last to see the storm roll through. Storms could come as early as midnight and end as late as 6 a.m. However, severe weather is most likely between 2-4 a.m.
Does Knoxville have tornado sirens?
No, Knox County does not have any type of outdoor tornado sirens.
“Sirens have some notable limitations and they’re not the most efficient or cost-effective way of warning the community,” Colin Ickes, director of the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency, told Knox News in 2023.
What’s the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning?
A tornado watch means that the conditions in a certain area make tornados possible, according to the National Weather Service. Be ready to act quickly if a tornado warning is issued.
A tornado warning means that a tornado has formed. If you see a tornado warning, take shelter immediately in a basement or room with no windows.
Knoxville weather radar
How to stay safe during an overnight storm
People are less likely to see and respond to a weather warning overnight because most individuals are asleep. Nighttime tornadoes are more likely to cause fatalities than daytime tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service.
Here are a few ways to be prepared and stay safe from overnight severe weather.
- Charge your electronic devices ahead of time in case the power goes out.
- Have a plan of where to go in case there is severe weather before you head to bed.
- Don’t turn your phone on do not disturb mode! Have a way for weather warnings to wake you up.
