TENNESSEE — Strong to severe storms are expected to impact Tennessee on Monday, bringing the potential for tornadoes as part of a widespread severe weather outbreak, according to the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center.
Forecasters say Tennessee is included in a broad area of severe weather stretching from the mid-Mississippi Valley into the Mid-South, with conditions capable of producing tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail.
While the greatest threat for strong, long-track tornadoes is expected farther north into Missouri and Illinois, Tennessee remains in an area where tornadoes are possible, particularly during the afternoon and evening hours.
The Storm Prediction Center indicates portions of western Tennessee, including areas near Memphis, could see a higher tornado risk as storms move east out of Arkansas and Missouri.
Storms are expected to develop in an environment with warm, moist air and strong wind shear — conditions favorable for rotating thunderstorms, including supercells capable of producing tornadoes.
In addition to the tornado threat, large hail and damaging wind gusts are also possible.
Forecasters say storms may organize into clusters during the evening, with the potential for embedded tornadoes continuing into the overnight hours.
Residents are urged to stay weather-aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings as conditions evolve throughout the day.
