After several inches of snow and arctic air over the past week, Knoxville and East Tennessee will see an ice storm move into the region on Friday.
As a low pressure system moves out of the southern plains, warm air will slide in on top of cold air that is at the surface. Also, moisture will begin to be pulled into the system from the south. As this occurs, rain will fall into a very shallow layer of cold air near the surface and freeze to objects such as roads, bridges, trees, power lines, and vehicles. Hazardous travel can be expected on Friday as well as the possibility of widespread power outages.
With such dangerous travel and the possibility of thousands without power, it is a good idea to prepare for this dangerous winter weather situation. Make sure to have plenty of food and water that can be consumed and prepared without electricity. It is also a good idea to have an additional heat source such as a wood stove or kerosene heater that can operate without electrical power. Extra blankets, clothing, flashlights, and candles are also good to have in case you must go without power. If you have prescriptions, make sure to have the medication that you need.
This situation will continue to develop over the next 24 hours as it approaches the area. In anticipation, prepare yourself in case you must go without power for a prolonged period of time. Please stay off of the roadways with any freezing rain and ice as well. As developments continue, stay tuned to Examiner.com and the East Tennessee Storm Team for all of the latest updates on this significant winter weather situation.
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