Ice storm heading for north Middle Tennessee

The National Weather Service has issued an ice storm warning and hazardous weather statement for northwest and north central Tennessee counties from 12 p.m. tonight through Tuesday. Significant accumulations are possible, particularly close to the Kentucky border.

The forecast calls for rain to develop this evening, turning to freezing rain around midnight with a low temperature of 30. The freezing rain is expected to change back to all rain Tuesday afternoon. high on Tuesday reach 37. Rain and sleet will continue into Tuesday night, with a chance of rain and snow Wednesday morning. A developing storm system near Texas will  move northeast toward the mid-state region tonight. A strong high pressure center north of Tennessee will keep temperatures at or below freezing, causing freezing rain to occur. Heaviest ice accumulations are expected near the Kentucky/Tennessee line.

“An Ice Storm warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or already occurring. Significant amounts of ice accumulations will make travel dangerous or impossible. Travel is strongly discouraged. Commerce may be impacted” ~~ National Weather Service

Keep an extra flashlight handy at home, and pack emergency supplies in your car (flashlight, food, water, blanket) in your vehicle in case of an emergency.  Ice and winds will likely lead to snapped power lines and falling tree branches  that add to the danger.

Spotters and local emergency management officials are encouraged to report any ice accumulations to the weather service in Nashville.