Golf Ball-Sized Hail Threat Today, Rain Chances for Mother’s Day Weekend

Spring in East Tennessee is a season of dramatic weather, and today brings a significant threat of severe storms with golf ball-sized hail, as the Storm Prediction Center places a bullseye over the region. From the vibrant urban core of Knoxville to the scenic trails of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rugged Cumberland Plateau, residents and visitors must stay vigilant. A warm front, high instability, and humid conditions set the stage for dangerous storms, with additional risks of damaging winds and isolated tornadoes. As we head into the Mother’s Day weekend, rain chances increase, particularly south of I-40, with heavier storms expected early next week. The EastTNweather platform, led by meteorologist Mike Witcher, delivers hyper-local updates via the app, website, YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV to keep you safe.

Today: Severe Storms with Golf Ball-Sized Hail
East Tennessee starts today with mostly cloudy skies and light passing showers, but the real concern is the severe storm threat this afternoon and evening. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a targeted alert for large hail, with golf ball-sized stones possible due to freezing levels below 10,000 feet, huge atmospheric instability, warm temperatures in the low to mid-80s, and dew points in the 60s. These conditions create the perfect recipe for supercell thunderstorms, with the best timing for storm initiation from 4 PM to 10 PM, peaking around 5 or 6 PM during the evening rush hour, dinner time, and kids’ sports practices.

Hail is the primary threat, potentially damaging vehicles, roofs, and crops, especially in areas like Knoxville, Morristown, and the Cumberland Plateau. Damaging winds up to 60-70 mph and an isolated tornado risk are also possible, particularly in supercell storms. The EastTNweather app is critical for receiving real-time alerts, offering interactive radar and customizable notifications like lightning alerts within 15 miles. Park cars under cover, avoid open fields, and seek shelter if storms approach, especially in Gatlinburg or Sevierville. The warm front moving north will clear skies slightly this afternoon, boosting instability and fueling these dangerous storms.

Safety Tips for Today’s Severe Weather
Today’s severe weather threat requires proactive preparation, as golf ball-sized hail can cause significant damage and pose safety risks. The evening timing, coinciding with rush hour and outdoor activities, heightens the need for vigilance. Ensure you have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, such as the EastTNweather app, website (easttnweather.com), or streaming updates on YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, or Apple TV. If you’re at a ball game or practice in Knoxville or Pigeon Forge, monitor radar closely and be ready to move to a sturdy building if storms approach.

Protect vehicles by parking under a garage or carport, as hail can dent or crack windshields. Avoid driving through heavy storm cells, as reduced visibility and road hazards increase risks. The EastTNweather platform’s 24/7 weather channel provides live updates from Mike Witcher, helping you stay informed during critical hours. For hikers in the Smoky Mountains or commuters in the Cumberland Plateau, stay alert for sudden wind gusts or signs of rotation, as isolated tornadoes, though rare, cannot be ruled out. Today’s storms underscore East Tennessee’s dynamic spring climate, where rapid weather shifts demand constant awareness.

Wednesday: Showers Return with the Next Low Pressure
By Wednesday, a new low pressure system moves into East Tennessee, increasing the chance for late-day showers. These showers will be light, with rainfall amounts under a tenth of an inch, and primarily affect areas like the Cumberland Plateau and Smoky Mountains. Highs will remain in the mid-70s, with rising humidity adding a slightly sticky feel to the air. The EastTNweather platform, including the app and streaming options on YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV, will keep you updated on the timing of these showers, ensuring you can adjust your plans accordingly.

Wednesday’s mild weather is suitable for morning activities, such as visiting the Knoxville Zoo or exploring the historic town of Jonesborough, before showers arrive later. The EastTNweather app’s interactive radar will help you track any rain, particularly if you’re in higher elevations like Gatlinburg or Townsend. The approaching low marks the start of a wetter pattern, highlighting East Tennessee’s dynamic spring climate, where sunny days often transition to rainy periods influenced by the region’s unique geography.

Thursday through the Weekend: A Bit More Heat, Humidity with Scattered Showers
Thursday brings more heat and humidity, with a chance for afternoon storms as the low pressure system settles in. Highs will stay in the mid-70s, but dew points will briefly rise, creating conditions conducive to scattered storms, particularly in areas like Knoxville, Sevierville, and the Smoky Mountains. From Thursday through Sunday, dew points drop back into the upper 40s to low 50s, reducing the likelihood of widespread thunderstorms but maintaining a chance for scattered showers. Rainfall amounts will be light, with most areas seeing less than a quarter-inch through Sunday.

The EastTNweather platform’s real-time alerts are essential for tracking these showers, ensuring you can plan outdoor activities like hiking or festivals in Pigeon Forge around drier periods. Sunday into Monday will see a better chance for more widespread rainfall, with some areas potentially receiving up to half an inch, particularly south of I-40. Residents in Chattanooga or Cleveland should stay alert for localized ponding, though significant flooding is unlikely. The mild temperatures and scattered showers make indoor venues, like the East Tennessee History Center or Dollywood’s indoor attractions, great backups for wetter days.

Sunday into Monday: Increased Rainfall Coverage
The wet pattern peaks from Sunday into Monday, with a better chance for more widespread rainfall across East Tennessee. While not heavy, this rain will bring a refreshing touch to the region’s lush spring landscapes, supporting blooming wildflowers and verdant forests. Highs will remain in the mid-70s, with comfortable conditions between showers. The EastTNweather app’s hourly forecasts and radar will help you time outdoor activities, such as visiting the Knoxville Botanical Garden or hiking in the Smokies, to avoid the wettest periods.

The increased rainfall coverage may affect weekend plans, so check back with the EastTNweather platform for updates as the forecast evolves. Mike Witcher’s daily video updates on YouTube, Roku, Amazon Fire, and Apple TV provide detailed insights into this system, ensuring you’re prepared for any changes. The mild temperatures and lower dew points will keep the air feeling fresh, making it a great time for short outdoor ventures or cozy indoor activities when showers pass through.

Why the Upper-Level Low Matters for East Tennessee
The upper-level low driving this week’s forecast is a key player in East Tennessee’s spring weather, creating cooler temperatures and unsettled conditions. These systems, characterized by a pool of cold air aloft, often lead to a mix of sun, clouds, and spotty showers, as seen today and Monday. The Tennessee Valley’s unique geography, nestled between the Smoky Mountains and the Cumberland Plateau, amplifies these effects, producing microclimates that vary from Knoxville’s urban core to Gatlinburg’s mountainous terrain. Understanding these patterns helps residents and visitors plan effectively, whether for hiking, commuting, or outdoor events.