NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Meteorologists are warning residents across Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky to prepare for strong to potentially severe storms on Friday, as a cold front pushes through the region. The FOX 17 Weather Team has issued a Code Red Weather Alert, signaling heightened awareness for hazardous conditions that could develop during the afternoon and evening hours.
Calm Before the Storm
Thursday will remain warm and calm, with highs in the low 70s under partly sunny skies. However, forecasters say the quiet pattern will change rapidly overnight as a powerful cold front moves in from the west.
Showers and isolated storms are expected to begin Friday morning after sunrise, with a stronger line of storms developing Friday afternoon and evening as the front crosses the area.
“We’re tracking a fast-moving system capable of producing damaging wind gusts and brief heavy rain,” said the FOX 17 Weather Team in Thursday’s update. “While the tornado threat is low, it’s not zero.”
Risk Levels and Primary Threats
The National Weather Service has placed most of the FOX 17 viewing area under a Level 2 out of 5 – Slight Risk for severe weather. The primary hazard will be damaging straight-line winds, though isolated spin-up tornadoes and localized flooding cannot be ruled out.
Areas most at risk include Nashville, Clarksville, Bowling Green, and nearby communities along the Interstate 65 corridor.
Meteorologists are advising residents to secure outdoor items, avoid travel during heavy rain, and monitor weather alerts throughout the day Friday.
Friday Storm Timeline
- Morning (6–10 a.m.): Scattered showers develop west of Nashville and spread eastward.
- Afternoon (12–5 p.m.): Stronger thunderstorms form along the cold front, bringing gusty winds up to 50–60 mph.
- Evening (5–9 p.m.): Line of storms moves east of Nashville into southern Kentucky before weakening overnight.
While widespread tornadoes are not expected, forecasters warn that embedded rotation within storm lines could still generate brief, isolated spin-ups.
Cooler Air to Follow the Front
Behind the storms, cooler and drier air will move into Middle Tennessee late Friday night. Temperatures will drop into the 40s by Saturday morning, with highs rebounding only into the 50s during the day.
The weekend is expected to be mostly sunny and cool, providing a break from the stormy weather pattern.
Stay Prepared and Informed
Emergency officials urge residents to keep weather radios and phone alerts activated, especially overnight, when severe weather can be harder to detect.
As the cold front approaches, conditions may change quickly. Stay connected with local forecasts and be ready to take shelter if warnings are issued.
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