HIGH WINDS THREATEN EAST TENNESSEE MOUNTAIN COUNTIES TUESDAY
A Wind Advisory goes into effect at midnight and continues through 4 p.m. Tuesday for several East Tennessee mountain counties, including Blount, Cocke, Johnson, Sevier, Southeast Carter, Southeast Greene, Southeast Monroe, and Unicoi. Forecasters warn that south winds of 15 to 25 mph will ramp up overnight, with gusts pushing 40 to 50 mph, especially along ridges above 3,000 feet and in well-known mountain-wave hotspots like Camp Creek.
The National Weather Service says the gusty conditions could knock down a few tree limbs and toss around unsecured outdoor items. Isolated power outages are possible. Drivers—particularly those in high-profile vehicles—are urged to use caution, as crosswinds may make travel tricky at times.
The advisory covers communities from Gatlinburg and Cades Cove to Erwin, Mountain City, Shady Valley, and Coker Creek, where wind-prone terrain tends to amplify these setups. Officials recommend securing loose items and staying alert for sudden gusts as the system moves through.
