NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The Easter weekend will start sunny but end stormy. Widespread strong to severe storms are expected which has prompted a Storm 5 Alert for Easter Sunday.
A level 4 risk (on a scale from 1 to 5) exists across central Mississippi. Tennessee is under a level 3 risk for areas along and South of I-40, and a level 2 risk for areas North of I-40.
On Sunday, a large part of our area is under a Flash Flood Watch with 2 to 3 inches of rain possible.
We are also under a Wind Advisory from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Gusts at 40-45 mph are possible whether storms are happening or not.
Round 1: Early Sunday rainfall -- not concerned with severe potential in the morning hours. We will need to watch the early day activity and how it could impact our severe potential. More cloud cover and rain could limit the severe potential for afternoon wave.
Round 2: Noon to 7 p.m. The biggest concern for the afternoon round will be flooding potential with a few strong storms possible.
Round 3: A line of storms will move into the Tennessee River by 10 p.m. and exit the Plateau by 2 to 3 a.m. Strong storms are possible within this line.
For our area the number one threat will be damaging straight line wind, not far behind it is the chance for tornadoes, some of which may be strong and/or long lasting.
Some flooding is also expected as heavy rainfall of 1/5" - 4" is possible. Hail is the lowest risk.
Now is the time to review your severe weather plan. Two simple steps can help set you up to be well prepared to handle whatever mother nature tosses your way. Have a reliable way to get weather information (a NOAA weather radio, weather app, etc) and practice getting into your shelter. If your shelter is a shared space, add sanitizer supplies and masks to the area so you will be able to shelter while still observing social distancing guidelines.
Our Storm Shield app is a great option for mobile devices. For an app to be successful you must make sure the volume on your phone is turned up, and notification and locations are turned on.
