A strong thunderstorm capable of producing wind gusts of up to 40 mph was moving through portions of Greene and surrounding counties late Thursday afternoon.
The National Weather Service in Morristown issued a special weather statement for central Greene, central Hawkins, eastern Hamblen and northwestern Washington counties through 6 p.m.
At 5:12 p.m., Doppler radar indicated a strong thunderstorm near Rogersville moving southeast at 25 mph.
Communities that could be affected include Greeneville, Rogersville, Tusculum, Surgoinsville, Mosheim, Bulls Gap, Baileyton, McCloud, Romeo and Fall Branch.
The National Weather Service said gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects.
Torrential rainfall is also occurring with the storm and could result in localized flooding. Motorists are advised not to drive through flooded roadways.
Anyone outdoors in the path of the storm should consider seeking shelter inside a building.
