Tennessee residents should brace for a snowy night ahead, with up to 4 inches of accumulation expected in some areas. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for much of the state, with the heaviest snowfall likely to hit overnight into Wednesday morning.
If you have to be on the road early in the morning, be prepared—slick conditions, icy patches, and reduced visibility could make for a dangerous commute. Officials are urging drivers to stay off the roads if possible and take extra precautions if travel is unavoidable.
How Much Snow Will Fall?
Most of Middle Tennessee, including Nashville, is expected to get 2 to 4 inches of snow, while areas closer to the Kentucky border could see even more—4 to 6 inches in some spots. For those living closer to the Tennessee-Alabama line, snowfall totals will be lighter, likely 1 to 2 inches.
The snow will start late Tuesday evening and pick up intensity overnight, with the heaviest snowfall expected between midnight and 6 AM. By the time most people wake up Wednesday morning, roads could already be covered, making travel tricky.
Road Conditions: What to Expect
Snowfall combined with temperatures below freezing means roads will be slick, especially in the early morning hours. Bridges and overpasses will freeze first, creating some of the most hazardous spots for drivers.
The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA) has warned that black ice will be a major concern, and they’re advising people to stay home if possible. If you must drive:
- Give yourself extra time—slow down and expect delays
- Increase your following distance to avoid skidding
- Use caution on bridges and untreated roads
- Keep an emergency kit in your car—blankets, flashlight, snacks, and water
How to Prepare
With snow piling up overnight, now is the time to get ready:
- Stock up on essentials—groceries, medications, and batteries in case of power outages.
- Prepare your home—make sure heating systems are working properly, and have extra blankets ready.
- Avoid unnecessary travel—if you don’t have to be on the road, stay put until conditions improve.
- Check on elderly neighbors and family—make sure they’re prepared and have everything they need.
What Happens After the Snow?
Once the snow stops falling Wednesday afternoon, temperatures will stay below freezing, which means the snow and ice won’t be melting anytime soon. Roads could remain slick into Thursday, especially in areas where plows and salt trucks haven’t cleared everything.
Expect black ice on sidewalks, parking lots, and side streets, so be extra careful when walking or driving