Big Picture Setup
Happy Friday! Thanks for checking in.
There’s been a noticeable shift in the forecast—and it’s a good one. The rain chances we’ve been tracking for the weekend have trended south, meaning much of East Tennessee is now looking at a drier and more favorable setup.
A storm system will pass to our south while upper-level troughing helps keep most of the deeper moisture out of our area. That means less rain and better outdoor conditions than previously expected.
Friday Forecast: Pleasant and Seasonal
Today looks solid:
- Morning: Cool start with 30s, 40s, and a few 50s
- Afternoon: Sunshine with increasing high clouds
- Highs: Around 70°
Evening plans:
- 5 PM: Near 70°
- 7–9 PM: Cooling into the low 60s
A comfortable and quiet spring day.A perfect evening to be outside.
Saturday Forecast: Mostly Dry with Clouds
Saturday’s forecast has improved quite a bit:
- Morning: Mostly cloudy and cool
- Afternoon: Some breaks of sunshine
- Highs: Mid 60s
Rain chances:
- Only about a 20–30% chance for a light shower
- Most rain stays south and east of the region
This is a big change from earlier forecasts that suggested more widespread rain.
Rainfall Trends: Shifting South
Recent model trends show:
- Rain largely confined to areas south and southeast of East Tennessee
- Little to no measurable rain for most local communities
- Better rain chances now displaced into the Carolinas
While a stray shower can’t be ruled out, widespread rain is no longer expected.
Sunday Forecast: Cool Start, Nice Finish
Sunday looks even better:
- Morning: Coldest start of the week
- Patchy frost possible in Upper East Tennessee
- Afternoon: Dry with highs in the upper 60s
A great day to be outdoors once temperatures rebound.
Weekend Events Outlook
For events in Townsend:
Bigfoot Festival:
- Cooler with clouds early
- Small chance for a light shower
- Improving conditions through the day
Dogwood Classic 5K:
- Cool morning in the 40s and 50s
- Dry conditions likely
- Ideal running weather
Next Week: Warmer, Then Rain Returns
Looking ahead:
- Sunday–Tuesday: Dry weather continues
- Midweek (Wednesday–Thursday): Rain chances increase
- Potential rainfall: 0.75″ to 1″
That midweek rain will be helpful given ongoing drought conditions.
Temperature Trend
- Friday: Around 71°
- Saturday: Mid 60s
- Sunday: Upper 60s
- Early next week: Warming into the 70s
Morning lows:
- Coldest Sunday morning
- Frost possible in colder valleys
Final Thoughts
Forecast changes are trending in a better direction for the weekend. While clouds will be around and a stray shower is possible, most of East Tennessee should stay largely dry.
Cool mornings, mild afternoons, and improving outdoor conditions make this a great weekend to get outside.
Have a great Friday!