KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — The National Weather Service and emergency response agencies across East Tennessee said they were prepared for a chance of severe overnight storms Tuesday evening.
Some parts of the area were hit by storms earlier in the day. The Sunbright community in Morgan County saw devastating damage from a possible tornado that swept through the area, in particular. Overnight into Wednesday morning, agencies said they were preparing for more severe weather to spread across the region.
The NWS projected winds could reach around 80 mph in some areas, with a chance of hail the size of ping-pong balls pelting the region. The winds would be strong enough to uproot some trees.
"The biggest danger with this system is that it's going to be dark soon, so people aren't going to be able to see things coming their way," said Anthony Cavallucci, with the NWS. "Can't take it for granted that just because we live in a mountainous area, we're safe from tornadoes."
To be safe during severe weather, people should back away from windows and make sure they have supplies ready in case power goes out. Those supplies should include any needed medication, a power bank and a way to get weather notifications, such as a hand crank radio.
They should also shelter in the lowest possible level of their homes if a tornado touches down, putting as many walls between themselves and the outside as possible.