Severe Weather Warning as 70+ MPH Winds Threaten Knoxville, Southwest NC, and East TN

A hazardous weather outlook has been issued for parts of southwest North Carolina, east Tennessee, and southwest Virginia, including the regions surrounding Knoxville, according to the National Weather Service in Morristown, TN. Gusts up to 70 mph are expected in the area, with even stronger winds forecasted for the mountains and foothills through Saturday night. The detailed forecast predicts high near 79°F today with weather turning severe starting tonight.

People are advised to watch for strong to severe storms late tonight along and west of I-75. "A few strong to severe storms will be possible late tonight mainly along and west of I-75. The primary threat will be gusty wind if storms hold together this far east," the National Weather Service warned.



Residents in the affected areas should anticipate potential disruption and take appropriate precautions. High winds could exacerbate the spread of any ongoing wildfires, adding to the high wind warnings already in place.As we head into the weekend, high winds of over 80 mph by Saturday evening are predicted for mountainous and foothill regions.

Coupled with the high wind concern, a severe weather outbreak is expected across select parts of the eastern United States, including the Cumberland Plateau, southeast Tennessee, and southwest North Carolina. The National Weather Service cautions that the outbreak could entail "widespread and significant damaging winds," alongside the threat of tornadoes and large hail.Regarding precipitation, a statement from the National Weather Service highlighted the risk of flash flooding, especially west of Interstate 75, stating, "Also, with multiple rounds of storms, there is a threat for flash flooding by Saturday evening.

" Emergency services and local communities are on alert for any necessary response to the severe conditions. Spotters may be tasked this weekend with reporting on severe thunderstorms and any incidents of flash flooding.For those in Knoxville and the Tennessee region, the weather forecast from the National Weather Service suggests this period will be marked by climatic turbulence, with a mix of calm conditions leading into potentially hazardous weather.

It is recommended that residents stay informed on the latest forecasts and heed the guidance issued by local authorities..