TENNESSEE — A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for much of the East Tennessee mountains as two rounds of snow are expected to impact the region from midnight tonight through midnight Monday night.
The National Weather Service in Morristown reports that Johnson County, the Cocke Smoky Mountains, southeast Greene County, Unicoi County, southeast Carter County, and the Blount and Sevier Smoky Mountains are all under the advisory.
Communities including Mountain City, Hampton, Trade, Hartford, Neva, Limestone Cove, Erwin, Unicoi, Shady Valley, Gatlinburg, Elkmont and Cades Cove are expected to see accumulating snowfall.
Forecasters say the first round of snow will develop overnight into Sunday morning, followed by a second round Sunday night into Monday. Snow totals are expected to range from 1 to 3 inches between 2,500 and 4,000 feet. Higher elevations above 4,000 feet could receive between 2 and 6 inches, with isolated totals exceeding 6 inches near and above 6,000 feet.
Winds are expected to gust up to 40 mph, which could create areas of blowing snow and reduced visibility. Gusty winds may also bring down tree branches in some areas.
Roads, particularly in higher elevations and mountain passes, are likely to become slick. The hazardous conditions could impact both the Monday morning and evening commutes.
Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution while traveling. Updated road conditions are available by calling 511.
