East Tennessee Weather: Severe Storms Threaten Saturday with Heavy Rain and Flood Risks

Welcome to the weekend, East Tennessee!
On this Saturday, June 7, 2025, at 9:30 AM EDT, we’re bracing for another round of severe storms, with the Storm Prediction Center issuing Level 2 (Slight) and Level 3 (Enhanced) risks, particularly in the southern Tennessee Valley extending into northern Georgia and Alabama. From the vibrant streets of Knoxville to the lush trails of the Great Smoky Mountains and the rugged 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. 

Saturday: Severe Storms with Damaging Winds and Heavy Rain
Saturday starts warm and muggy, with morning temperatures in the 60s across higher elevations like the Cumberland Plateau and low 70s in the southern Valley near Chattanooga and Cleveland. By midday, temperatures climb to the mid to upper 80s, 5-7 degrees above the seasonal average of 81°F, with dew points in the mid-60s pushing heat index values near 90°F. This summer-like heat fuels an unstable atmosphere, setting the stage for severe storms. The Storm Prediction Center’s Level 2 and 3 risks indicate a significant threat, with the greatest risk south of I-40 in Chattanooga, Athens, and Cleveland, where storms could be most intense.

Storms are expected to remain dry until around 2 PM, when they begin approaching the Cumberland Plateau. By 6-8 PM, the Tennessee Valley, including Knoxville and Chattanooga, will see storm activity, while Upper East Tennessee (Johnson City, Morristown) faces risks after 7 PM. Damaging winds exceeding 60 mph are the primary threat, capable of downing trees and power lines. Torrential downpours could produce 1-3 inches of rain, with rainfall rates of 1-2 inches per hour, especially south of I-40. Following Friday’s heavy rain, this additional rainfall raises serious concerns for localized flooding and flash flooding, particularly in urban areas and low-lying regions. Hail is possible but not a significant threat, with damaging hail (over 1 inch) unlikely. The EastTNweather app is essential for tracking these storms, with its Interactive Radar providing past, current, and two-hour future projections. Plan indoor activities like visiting the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga or the East Tennessee History Center in Knoxville during peak storm hours, and stay alert for flood risks.

Sunday: Mostly Sunny with Minimal Storm Risk
Sunday brings a welcome break from Saturday’s severe weather, with mostly sunny skies and highs in the low 80s, aligning with the seasonal average. Lows will hover in the 60s, with dew points in the low 60s keeping conditions comfortable. A Level 1 (Marginal) risk for severe storms persists, meaning any isolated showers could produce gusty winds, but rain chances are minimal, with less than 0.25 inches expected. South of I-40, like Chattanooga and Athens, may see a brief shower, while north of I-40, including Knoxville and the Smoky Mountains, should stay mostly dry.

The EastTNweather app’s forecasts make Sunday planning easy, with radar to track any stray showers. Enjoy morning outings like picnics at Knoxville’s World’s Fair Park, hikes in Cades Cove, or riverside strolls in Chattanooga, but keep indoor options like the Tennessee Aquarium or Blount Mansion ready for afternoon showers. The platform’s streaming updates refine Sunday’s outlook, ensuring you maximize the sunshine. Sunday’s calmer weather offers a chance to recover from Saturday’s storms, with the app keeping your plans flexible and safe.

Monday-Tuesday: Renewed Severe Weather Risks
Monday and Tuesday see another round of potential severe weather as an upper trough moves in from the Upper Midwest. The Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 1 and 2 risk for Monday (Day 3), with damaging winds, heavy rain, and a low tornado threat possible. Highs will range in the low to mid-80s, with muggy dew points in the mid-60s fueling storms. Rainfall could reach 0.5-1 inch, with south of I-40 (Chattanooga, Cleveland) at higher risk. Tuesday’s forecast is less certain but likely similar, with continued storm chances. The EastTNweather app’s long-range forecasts and radar will keep you updated as this system develops.

Plan indoor activities like visiting the Knoxville Museum of Art or Chattanooga’s Hunter Museum for Monday afternoon, and use the app to find dry windows for commutes in Morristown or hikes in the Smoky Mountains. The platform’s streaming updates will sharpen the forecast, ensuring you stay prepared. These early-week storms keep the summer active, but the app’s precision keeps your plans on track.

Late Next Week: June Heat Returns
By mid-to-late next week, a ridge of high pressure builds in, bringing hotter, June-like weather. Highs will climb to the mid to upper 80s, 3-5 degrees above average, with heat index values near 90°F and lows in the 60s. Mostly sunny skies dominate, with occasional afternoon showers possible but less widespread. This hot, summery weather is ideal for kayaking on the Tennessee River, attending festivals in Pigeon Forge, or exploring Jonesborough’s historic charm.

The EastTNweather platform’s forecasts will detail this heat wave, with the app’s alerts keeping you ahead of any pop-up showers. Plan outdoor activities in Sevierville or Cleveland for late week, but stay hydrated and use sunscreen in the upper 80s. The platform’s updates ensure your summer plans stay vibrant, with the humidity manageable for a Smoky Mountain adventure. This return to June heat wraps the week with a classic Tennessee feel.