A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for parts of East Tennessee beginning Friday afternoon and lasting through late Saturday night. The watch covers Blount County, with a second watch expanding to include Monroe County as well.

Forecasters say heavy snow is possible during this time. In Blount County, snow totals could range from 2 to 4 inches. In areas that include Blount and Monroe Counties, snowfall amounts could be higher, between 3 and 7 inches. In the higher elevations, especially in the mountains, winds could gust up to 35 miles per hour.

Road conditions are expected to become slick and hazardous, especially during the Friday evening commute. Travel could become very difficult at times, particularly as snow continues into Saturday night. Drivers are urged to be prepared for changing conditions and use caution if they need to be on the roads.