A strong storm system and a fast-moving cold front brought a dramatic drop in temperatures, heavy winds and sloppy conditions to Middle Tennessee.
The area experienced four seasons Saturday and Sunday, with scattered showers Saturday, and temperatures soaring to over 70 degrees.
PHOTOS: Severe Weather, Wintry Mix Move In
A tornado watch was issued Saturday for all areas north and west of Nashville. At 9 p.m. that watch was extended to 3 a.m. and included most of Middle Tennessee.
The warm weather was followed by a cold front, pushing through from 8 p.m. until midnight.
A few reports of ice in Montgomery, Stewart, Houston Co. TDOT crews are checking roads and salting as needed.
— Kathryn Schulte (@SchulteTDOT) December 18, 2016
“A squall line is expected to form ahead of the arctic front,” said meteorologist Bree Smith.
The chance for severe weather increased along the line where the cold and hot air meet. There were reports of trees blocking the roadway in Old Hickory.
“Damaging straight line winds is the main threat, although a very brief isolated tornado is not impossible – primarily for areas southwest of Nashville,” said Smith.
She said the greatest threat for tornadic activity was in Wayne and Lawrence Counties, but pop-up rotation could happen anywhere along the squall line.
The greatest threat across the area for damage was from straight line winds.
Early Sunday morning, the cold moved in, transitioning the precipitation from rain to a wintry mix.
The greatest possibility for a mix of sleet, freezing rain and wet snowflakes was from midnight to 6 a.m.
There were several reports of icy interstate roads throughout the area.
Our snowfighters still reporting mainly just wet roads at this time. There are some icy spots, especially on bridges. Use caution!
— KYTC District 3 (@KYTCDistrict3) December 18, 2016
No significant wintry weather accumulations were expected, although elevated surfaces and exposed bridges and overpasses could freeze over and become slippery.
Multiple power outages were reported. Click the links below to see current numbers:
-Nashville Electric Service
-Middle Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation
-Cumberland Electric Membership Corporation
Flights may also be canceled or delayed at Nashville International Airport. To check that list, click here.
