Diurnal Thunderstorms, Severe Storm Risks, and a Sunny Sunday

Today: Severe Storms with Hail, Wind, and a Small Tornado Risk
East Tennessee starts the day mild, with morning temperatures in the 60s and scattered showers moving from south to north. These early showers pose no severe threat, but they set the stage for an active afternoon. As skies become partly cloudy, temperatures will climb into the 70s by lunchtime and reach highs in the low to mid-80s, fueling instability in the atmosphere. This instability will trigger late afternoon and evening storms, with the best timing for severe weather from 3 PM to 10 PM. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 1 (Marginal) and Level 2 (Slight) risk for isolated strong to severe storms, particularly impacting the northern Cumberland Plateau.

The primary threats include large hail, damaging winds, and an isolated tornado risk, especially in areas like the northern Cumberland Plateau, including Jamestown and Crossville. Knoxville, Gatlinburg, and Morristown may also see stormy conditions, though the severe threat is less pronounced in these areas. The EastTNweather app is your essential tool for tracking these storms, offering real-time radar and alerts to keep you safe. Whether you’re hiking in the Smoky Mountains, exploring World’s Fair Park, or attending events in Pigeon Forge, schedule outdoor activities for the morning to avoid peak storm hours. The summer-like heat and humidity make it critical to stay hydrated and wear lightweight clothing while enjoying the warm weather before the storms arrive.

Friday and Saturday: Ongoing Storm Risks and Flooding Concerns
The stormy pattern continues on Friday and Saturday, with the Storm Prediction Center currently indicating a Level 1 (Marginal) risk for severe storms across East Tennessee. Expect similar threats of large hail, damaging winds, and isolated tornadoes, though the severity may be less intense than Thursday’s storms. Highs will remain in the low to mid-80s, maintaining the summer-like feel, but increasing humidity will fuel storm development. A cold front, initially expected to move through on Friday, has slowed significantly, prolonging the rainy pattern into Saturday. This shift increases the risk of flooding and flash flooding, particularly through Saturday evening, as repeated rounds of rain could overwhelm drainage systems in low-lying areas.

Areas like Knoxville, Sevierville, and valleys in the Great Smoky Mountains are at higher risk for flooding, especially if recent rainfall has saturated the ground. The EastTNweather platform, including the app, website (easttnweather.com), Roku, Amazon Fire, and YouTube, will provide critical updates as the flood risk evolves. Model guidance shows conflicting timelines, with the GFS suggesting rain may clear earlier on Saturday, while the ECMWF indicates lingering precipitation. Stay tuned to Mike Witcher’s daily updates on the EastTNweather platform to track how this forecast unfolds. For residents planning outdoor events, such as sports tournaments or festivals, have indoor backups ready, such as the Knoxville Museum of Art or the East Tennessee History Center, to stay dry during the wet weather.

Forecast Change: Upper-Level Low Brings Cooler Weather
Earlier this week, forecasts promised a great weekend following the cold front’s passage, but the slowed front and the arrival of an upper-level low—a meteorologist’s challenge—have altered the outlook. The upper-level low will linger beyond the weekend, bringing cooler highs in the 60s and low 70s, partly to mostly cloudy skies, and a chance for a few passing showers into next week. This shift marks a departure from the summer-like heat, offering a more seasonal feel but with ongoing wet weather potential. The cooler temperatures and cloud cover will create a cozy atmosphere, ideal for indoor activities or short outdoor ventures between showers.

The EastTNweather platform is your best resource for staying on top of these changes, delivering hyper-local updates to keep you informed. The lingering upper-level low underscores the importance of daily weather checks, as East Tennessee’s spring climate can shift rapidly. Whether you’re a local planning a week of activities or a tourist exploring the Smoky Mountains, the EastTNweather app, website, and streaming platforms ensure you’re never caught off guard by the region’s dynamic weather patterns.

Sunday: A Glimmer of Drier Weather
While the cold front’s slow movement delays the return of drier weather, Sunday offers a glimmer of hope. Skies will begin to clear, with partly cloudy conditions and highs in the low to mid-70s. The lower humidity will make the air feel crisp and refreshing, creating a pleasant day for outdoor activities across Knoxville, Pigeon Forge, and the Great Smoky Mountains. Sunday is perfect for hiking trails in Cades Cove, picnicking at Tyson Park, or visiting attractions like Dollywood or the Knoxville Zoo, where the seasonal temperatures will enhance your experience.

However, the chance for a few passing showers remains, as the upper-level low continues to influence the region. The EastTNweather app’s real-time alerts will help you time your outdoor plans to avoid any stray showers. The clear skies and comfortable conditions on Sunday provide a brief respite before the cooler, cloudier weather dominates next week, making it a great opportunity to soak up East Tennessee’s natural beauty and cultural offerings.

Next Week: Cooler and Unsettled with Lingering Showers
Next week, the upper-level low will keep East Tennessee cooler and unsettled, with highs in the 60s and low 70s and partly to mostly cloudy skies. A chance for passing showers will persist, particularly early in the week, as the low slowly moves out. This cooler pattern contrasts with the summer-like heat of earlier this week, reflecting East Tennessee’s dynamic spring climate. The cloudy skies and occasional showers make it a great time for indoor activities, such as exploring the Knoxville Botanical Garden’s indoor exhibits or visiting the historic town of Jonesborough.

The EastTNweather platform, led by Mike Witcher, will keep you updated as the forecast evolves, ensuring you’re prepared for any shifts in the weather pattern. The app’s interactive radar and customizable alerts are perfect for planning your week, whether you’re commuting in Knoxville, hiking in the Smokies, or attending events in Sevierville. With the potential for lingering showers, stay vigilant for flooding risks in low-lying areas and keep rain gear handy for outdoor ventures.

Why the eastTNweather Platform is Essential for Spring
East Tennessee’s spring weather is unpredictable, and this week’s forecast—with severe storms, flooding risks, and a cooler shift—highlights the need to stay informed daily. The EastTNweather platform, featuring the app, website, Roku, Amazon Fire, and YouTube, is your ultimate resource for hyper-local weather updates. Led by meteorologist Mike Witcher, the platform delivers real-time alerts, detailed radar views, and daily forecasts, ensuring you’re always prepared for the region’s dynamic climate.

The EastTNweather app, available for iOS and Android, offers customizable alerts and hourly forecasts, making it ideal for tracking storms and planning your day, whether you’re in Knoxville, the Smoky Mountains, or the Cumberland Plateau. The website (easttnweather.com) provides in-depth forecasts, while Roku, Amazon Fire, and YouTube offer streaming updates for easy access. With no excuse to miss critical weather information, join Mike Witcher every day to stay in the know and keep your plans on track. Visit easttnweather.com to download the app and explore the platform’s full suite of tools.

Tips for Navigating East Tennessee’s Spring Weather
Spring in East Tennessee is a vibrant season, with warm temperatures, blooming landscapes, and a calendar packed with outdoor events. To help you make the most of this week’s dynamic weather, here are some expert tips tailored to the region:

• Track Storms Today: Monitor severe storms from 3 PM to 10 PM, especially in the northern Cumberland Plateau, using the EastTNweather app’s radar. Seek shelter if large hail, damaging winds, or tornado warnings are issued.
• Prepare for Flooding Friday and Saturday: With increased flooding and flash flooding risks, avoid low-lying areas and flooded roads. The EastTNweather platform’s alerts will keep you informed of potential hazards.

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• Enjoy Sunday’s Clearer Skies: Take advantage of Sunday’s partly cloudy skies and mid-70s highs for hiking in the Smoky Mountains, picnicking at Ijams Nature Center, or visiting the Knoxville Zoo.
• Stay Ready for Next Week’s Showers: Keep rain gear handy for passing showers and plan indoor activities, such as visiting the East Tennessee History Center, to stay dry during the cooler, cloudier weather.
• Stay Sun-Safe Today: With highs in the 80s, wear lightweight clothing, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated during morning outdoor activities in Knoxville or the Smokies before storms arrive.