TENNESSEE — Parts of the southern and central Appalachian region will briefly return to more seasonable winter weather over the next few days, but forecasters warn that the break will be short-lived. High temperatures are expected to reach the upper 40s to near 50 degrees, with overnight lows dipping into the upper 20s, offering a temporary pause from harsher winter conditions. Meteorologists caution residents not to get comfortable, as a stronger Arctic cold blast is forecast to arrive by the middle of the week.
Strong Arctic Front Brings Dangerous Wind Chills by Thursday Morning
By Thursday morning, a powerful surge of Arctic air is expected to sweep across Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, and Kentucky, bringing brutal wind chills to the region. Forecast models show subzero wind chill values in the higher elevations of the Appalachian Mountains, while areas outside the mountains could experience wind chills in the teens.
The cold will be intensified by strong winds gusting between 40 and 50 mph, creating hazardous conditions for anyone outdoors, especially during early morning hours.
Mountain Areas See the Harshest Conditions
The coldest apparent temperatures are expected across the mountain regions, where wind chill values could plunge well below zero. Higher elevations in eastern Tennessee, western North Carolina, southwest Virginia, and eastern Kentucky are most vulnerable to the extreme cold.
Forecasters note that these conditions increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia in a short amount of time, particularly for those exposed to the wind.
Cold Pattern Persists Through the Weekend
Following the Arctic blast, temperatures are expected to remain below normal through the weekend. Highs from Thursday through Sunday are forecast to stay mostly in the 40s, with some locations struggling to climb out of the 30s, especially in northern and higher-elevation areas. Overnight lows will remain cold, reinforcing that this is not a one-day cold snap but part of a persistent winter pattern.
What Residents Should Prepare For
While no major winter precipitation is highlighted in this data, the cold and wind combination will be the primary concern. Residents are urged to prepare for dangerous wind chills, protect pets and pipes, and limit prolonged outdoor exposure during the coldest periods…