NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Strong wind gusts are expected across Middle Tennessee on Thursday as a powerful cold front moves through the region. Along with the increasing winds, scattered storms are possible, with a few that could briefly become strong.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed Middle Tennessee and southern Kentucky under a Marginal Risk (Level 1 of 5) for severe weather Thursday afternoon through late evening. While widespread severe weather is not expected, conditions will support isolated stronger storms.
The main concern is damaging wind gusts, which could exceed 58 mph in some areas, especially during the late afternoon and evening hours. The risk for hail and tornadoes remains very low at this time.
Thursday will start mostly dry, but winds will steadily increase through the morning. A first round of rain and isolated storms may arrive around midday, followed by a more organized line of storms later in the afternoon and evening, moving from west to east. These storms may appear intense due to the strong winds, even if lightning and heavy rain are limited. The cold front is expected to pass overnight into early Friday.
Wind will be noticeable throughout the day, with sustained gusts over 20 mph and higher gusts possible as storms move through. Residents are encouraged to secure or bring inside any loose outdoor items.
Behind the front, much colder air arrives Friday, with morning temperatures dropping into the 20s and afternoon highs only reaching the 40s under sunny skies.
The weekend brings a rebound, with highs climbing back near 60 degrees. Another system could bring rain late Saturday night into Sunday, followed by yet another cold front.
Looking ahead, warmer-than-average temperatures are expected to stick around through much of the second half of December. Highs in the 50s and 60s are likely around Christmas, with the potential for even warmer days mixed in.
Stay tuned to North Nashville News for updates as conditions change.