Sat May 17 06:10:00 UTC 2025: **FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**East Tennessee Braces for Severe Overnight Storms: Residents Urged to Prepare**

Knoxville, TN – East Tennessee residents are advised to prepare for severe weather expected to impact the region tonight, May 16, continuing into the early morning hours of May 17. The National Weather Service is warning of potential large hail, isolated tornadoes, and damaging straight-line winds up to 70 miles per hour.

While communities in northeast Tennessee are under a severe thunderstorm watch until 6 p.m. this evening, the primary threat will arrive later tonight. The National Weather Service predicts that Sunbright and La Follette will be the first areas to experience severe weather, potentially as early as 9 p.m., with the storm lasting until approximately 4 a.m.

The majority of East Tennessee, including Knoxville, Kingsport, and Pikeville, are expected to see the most intense weather between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m., though storms could begin as early as 11 p.m. and persist until 5 a.m. Chattanooga, Gatlinburg, Mountain City, and Tennessee’s easternmost communities are projected to experience severe weather between 2 a.m. and 4 a.m., with the storm potentially arriving as early as midnight and lasting until 6 a.m.

**Know your terminology:**
* **Tornado Watch:** Conditions are favorable for tornadoes in the area. Be prepared to act quickly.
* **Tornado Warning:** A tornado has been sighted or indicated by weather radar. Seek immediate shelter in a basement or interior room with no windows.

Due to the increased danger associated with nighttime tornadoes, which are statistically more deadly, officials are urging residents to take extra precautions. Colin Ickes, director of the Knoxville-Knox County Emergency Management Agency, confirmed that Knox County does not have outdoor tornado sirens, citing limitations and cost-effectiveness.

**To stay safe during the storm:**
* Have multiple ways to receive weather alerts, such as a weather radio, smartphone apps, or local news broadcasts.
* Know where to take shelter in the event of a tornado warning.
* Charge cell phones and other devices.
* Bring loose outdoor items inside.
* Stay informed and monitor weather updates throughout the night.

Residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and prioritize their safety as the severe weather moves through the region.

**###**

Read More