Travel is expected to be hazardous in much of Tennessee, including the Cumberland Plateau, with an approaching winter storm.

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for nearly all of the state except Bradley and Polk County. The watch goes into effect at 6 p.m. tomorrow (Sunday, January 14, 2024) and is set to expire at noon Tuesday, January 16, 2024.

Citizens can expect this watch to be upgraded to a winter storm warning sometime Sunday, January 14, 2024.

Schools across the state are already closed for Monday, January 15, 2024, in observance of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day.

There is a high probability schools in the area will remain closed on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, as temperature will stay below freezing with a range now of 3 to 7 inches of snow on the ground on the plateau. The forecast projects anywhere from 1 to 4 inches in the valley.

This morning, TDOT started to brine state highways and interstates in anticipation of the approaching winter storm.

The second punch from the storm will be bitter and dangerously cold temperatures.

The majority of the snow will fall Monday (January 15) with a high temperature of only 27. The low Monday night will fall to 15. The high Tuesday is projected to be 21 on the plateau. The low Tuesday night in Crossville is expected to be -1 with winds blowing at 10 miles an hour.

The high temperature will not rise above freezing until Thursday at 37 degrees.

Please take measures now to stay warm and use extreme caution if you have to travel.

Taking a few steps now can make a big difference in how winter weather can affect you, your family, and your home.

Here are some preparedness actions that everyone should do ahead of a winter weather event to ensure their safety:

• Stay warm indoors to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.
• Prepare your home to keep out the cold with insulation, caulking, and weather stripping.
• Have a SAFE alternate heat source should electricity go out if power lines or tree limbs are affected. Be sure to follow all safety instructions and keep heaters away from combustible items.
• Be mindful of carbon monoxide. Only use grills and generators outdoors.
• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly.
• Plan to check on loved ones and neighbors to make sure they are staying warm. This is especially important for older adults and babies.
• Drink plenty of warm fluids but avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Avoid travel if you can.
• If you must go outside, plan to dress properly. Keep your nose, ears, cheeks, chin, fingers, and toes covered in warm, dry clothing. These areas are the first to be at risk for frostbite.
• Wear layers of loose clothing, a coat, hat, mittens, and water-resistant boots. Use a scarf to cover your face and mouth.
• Gather food, water, and medicine before a winter storm. Stores might be closed, and it may be unsafe to travel.
• Ensure you have enough warm clothing, such as hats, mittens, and blankets, for everyone in your household.
• Consider having emergency supplies in your vehicle, such as a blanket, warm clothing, a first aid kit, and boots.
• Have a snow shovel and ice-melting products to keep your walkways safe.