East Tennessee is diving into a rainy weather pattern today, with showers, storms, and potential flooding risks setting the stage through Wednesday. The Storm Prediction Center has flagged a Level 1 Marginal Risk for isolated strong to severe storms, while the Weather Prediction Center warns of Level 1 and 2 flood concerns. As an upper-level low tracks from the Mississippi River Valley to the Upper Midwest, overcast skies and persistent rain will dominate, followed by a surge of July-like heat by Thursday. From the vibrant energy of Knoxville to the serene trails of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rolling Cumberland Plateau, the EastTNweather platform, led by meteorologist Mike Witcher, delivers hyper-local updates via its app, website, YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV to keep you safe and dry.
Today: A Rainy Start with Isolated Severe Storms this Afternoon
Today marks the onset of a wet pattern, with overcast skies and showers across East Tennessee. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 1 Marginal Risk for isolated strong to severe storms, with the best timing this afternoon. Primary threats include damaging winds of 58 mph or greater, hail up to 1 inch, and a low, but not impossible, chance of an isolated tornado. The atmosphere lacks the dynamics for widespread tornadoes, but vigilance is key. The Weather Prediction Center’s Level 1 and 2 flood risk highlights concerns for heavy rain, particularly south of I-40 in areas like Chattanooga and Cleveland, where rainfall could accumulate rapidly.
The EastTNweather app is your essential tool, offering real-time radar and customizable alerts for severe weather and flooding. Highs today will reach the low to mid-70s, with humid conditions and dew points in the 60s creating a muggy feel. For commuters in Knoxville or hikers in the Smoky Mountains, monitor radar closely, especially during the afternoon storm window. Avoid low-lying areas prone to flooding, and have indoor backups like the Tennessee Aquarium or Knoxville Museum of Art for rainy spells. The EastTNweather platform’s streaming updates on YouTube and Roku provide live insights to keep you prepared.
Monday through Wednesday: Persistent Rain and Flood Concerns
The upper-level low tracking from the Mississippi River Valley to the Upper Midwest will keep East Tennessee under overcast skies and rainy conditions through Wednesday. Showers and thunderstorms will pile up rainfall, with totals of 1-2 inches possible, heaviest south of I-40 in Chattanooga, Athens, and surrounding areas. Some locations may see higher amounts, raising concerns for rising water in flood-prone spots. While widespread flooding is unlikely, the Weather Prediction Center’s Level 1 and 2 risks urge caution, particularly in low-lying areas or near creeks and rivers.
Thursday and Friday: July-Like Summer Heat Builds In
By Thursday, a ridge of high pressure sweeps in, clearing the skies and ushering in July-like summer heat. Highs will climb to the mid to upper 80s across East Tennessee, with dew points in the mid to upper 60s pushing heat index values into the low to mid-90s. The sultry conditions will feel intense, especially in open areas like the Smoky Mountains or Chattanooga’s riverfront, making hydration and sunscreen essential. The warm, sunny weather is ideal for outdoor adventures, from kayaking on the Tennessee River to hiking in the Cumberland Plateau or relaxing in the Knoxville Botanical Garden.
Friday into the Weekend: A Cold Front Brings Back More Storms, Some Strong
Friday into the weekend brings a cold front, increasing chances for showers and storms, with some potentially strong. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Day 4 risk for the Upper Midwest, hinting at possible severe weather extending into East Tennessee by Saturday. Gusty winds, heavy rain, or isolated severe storms are possible, particularly in Knoxville, Chattanooga, and the Cumberland Plateau. Rainfall amounts will vary, but south of I-40 may again see the brunt of the activity.
Daily check-ins with the EastTNweather platform are essential, as Mike Witcher’s video updates on YouTube, Roku, and streaming services will track the front’s evolution. The app’s real-time alerts and radar will help you plan flexible activities, such as visiting the East Tennessee History Center or the Tennessee Aquarium during stormy periods. Outdoor plans, like festivals in Pigeon Forge or hikes in the Smokies, should include indoor backups. The cold front’s arrival reinforces East Tennessee’s dynamic weather, keeping residents ready for rapid shifts.
ABOVE AND BEYOND THE 7 DAY FORECAST
Looking past the 7 Day Forecast, the Climate Prediction Center has issues a forecast based on probabilities.
These maps don’t show you how far above or below, but rather an idea of how strong the signal is.
Why eastTNweather Keeps You Prepared
East Tennessee’s spring weather is a lively dance of rain, storms, and heat, and this week’s forecast—from severe storm risks to flooding concerns and summer warmth—captures its energy. The EastTNweather platform, led by Mike Witcher, outshines traditional TV by focusing solely on weather, delivering hyper-local updates via the app, website, YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV. With real-time radar, customizable alerts for storms or flooding, and engaging video forecasts, the platform keeps you one step ahead.
EastTNweather fosters a community bond, answering questions on social media about flood risks or heat indices, ensuring residents from Knoxville to Chattanooga stay safe. Whether you’re a commuter in Sevierville or a hiker in the Smoky Mountains, the platform’s precision empowers you to navigate any weather. Download the app at easttnweather.com and join East Tennessee’s dedicated weather community, staying dry and ready for every rainy or sunny moment.
Tips to Stay Safe and Enjoy the Week
East Tennessee’s spring is a vibrant season, with lush landscapes and a packed calendar of outdoor events. Here are tailored tips to navigate this week’s weather:
- Watch Afternoon Storms Today: Monitor severe storm risks (winds 58+ mph, 1” hail) with the EastTNweather app’s radar. Seek shelter in Knoxville or Chattanooga if storms approach.
- Avoid Flood-Prone Areas: With 1-2 inches of rain through Wednesday, steer clear of low-lying spots south of I-40. Use the app’s flood alerts for safety in Cleveland or Athens.
- Embrace Thursday’s Heat: Enjoy mid to upper 80s for kayaking or hiking in the Cumberland Plateau. Stay hydrated, apply sunscreen, and check the app for heat index updates.
- Plan for Weekend Storms: Prepare for Friday-Saturday’s cold front with indoor backups like the Tennessee Aquarium. Use the EastTNweather platform to track severe weather risks.
- Stay Dry, Stay Vibrant: Explore Jonesborough’s historic charm or Dollywood’s indoor attractions during rainy days, using the app to find dry windows for outdoor fun.
East Tennessee’s Spring Symphony
East Tennessee’s spring is a symphony of nature’s moods, from rainy crescendos to sunny interludes, shaped by the Tennessee Valley’s embrace between the Great Smoky Mountains and Cumberland Plateau. This week’s forecast, with its stormy start, flood risks, and summer heat, sings of the region’s untamed beauty. From Knoxville’s urban pulse to the Smoky Mountains’ misty serenity, the weather invites residents to embrace every moment, rain or shine.
The shift from wet 70s to sizzling 90s heat indices, with a stormy weekend, offers a chance to adapt and thrive. The EastTNweather platform ensures you’re ready, delivering hyper-local precision to keep your plans on track. As we navigate this vibrant week, East Tennessee’s weather adds a spark of adventure to every day.