The National Weather Service has expanded a Wind Advisory to cover much of East Tennessee, warning residents to brace for strong winds that could lead to power outages, downed trees, and hazardous driving conditions.

The advisory will be in effect Wednesday, March 19, from noon to 11:00 PM EDT (11:00 AM to 10:00 PM CDT) for the following counties: Blount, Morgan, Rhea, Meigs, Monroe, Roane, Loudon, Bledsoe, Anderson, and McMinn. Forecasters expect south winds of 10 to 20 mph, with gusts reaching up to 40 mph.

Additionally, a separate advisory has been issued for Blount and Monroe counties from 11:00 AM Wednesday to 8:00 AM EDT Thursday, March 20. In these areas, winds will be even stronger, reaching sustained speeds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 55 mph. Higher elevations, such as Cove Mountain and Camp Creek, could see gusts over 60 mph Wednesday night.

Potential Impacts

• Loose objects such as patio furniture and trash cans may be blown around.
• Tree limbs could be snapped, leading to scattered power outages.
• High-profile vehicles like trucks and RVs may experience difficulty on the roads.
• Mountainous areas will face the strongest gusts, increasing the risk of falling branches and travel disruptions.

Safety Precautions

• Secure outdoor furniture, decorations, and lightweight objects.
• Be prepared for possible power outages. Charge devices and have flashlights on hand.
• Use extra caution when driving, especially in exposed areas or at high speeds.
• If traveling through the Blount Smoky Mountains or Southeast Monroe County, expect dangerous wind conditions, particularly overnight Wednesday.

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