A second, potentially more dangerous line of thunderstorms is expected to move through the area late tonight, bringing the risk of damaging winds, hail and possibly tornadoes, according to the National Weather Service and local emergency management officials.
The storms, which are currently moving east across the Cumberland Plateau, have already prompted multiple tornado warnings in Anderson, Scott, Morgan and Campbell counties. Forecasters say the line of storms could reach Greene County between 11 p.m. and 2 a.m. While the system may weaken as it moves eastward, officials urge residents to remain alert. Tornado watches are already in effect for counties to the west, though as of 9:30 p.m., Greene County was not under any watches or warnings.
Earlier Monday afternoon, a separate line of severe storms swept through the region, downing trees and power lines. Greene County was on the southern edge of that storm system, which spawned tornado warnings in Middle Tennessee and brought wind gusts estimated between 60 and 65 mph locally.
More than 2,300 Greeneville Energy Authority customers lost power after strong straight-line winds and possible microbursts knocked down several power poles along Snapps Ferry Road, which remained closed Monday night. Scattered reports of damage were received countywide, including a home on Brentwood Drive where a large tree crashed onto the roof. Numerous trees were also reported down on roads throughout the area.
Heather Sipe with Greene County Emergency Management said no tornado activity is currently suspected from the afternoon storms, although a damage assessment may be done to confirm that. Sipe said that meteorologists said that early indications were that the storm only had straight-line winds and showed no rotation, which would indicate a tornado. Our area was not under any tornado watch or warning earlier today, although the National Weather Service did issue a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.
As tonight’s storms approach, residents are advised to monitor local broadcasts and weather alerts. Emergency officials warn that potential power outages could impact cell service and internet access.
Live storm coverage will continue on all three of our stations until the severe weather threat has passed. Tune in to 1340 AM and 99.5 FM WGRV, 103.1 FM WIKQ, and 1450 AM or 95.5 FM WSMG. Our stations also stream at WGRV.com.
