KNOXVILLE, Tennessee — The snow falling across East Tennessee on Thursday night is pretty but it also can cause hazards.
Authorities urged caution as amounts began to pile up.
Numerous spots in the Knoxville metro area were seeing backups, slick spots and some crashes.
Problem areas included Interstate 640 Eastbound in Knoxville, where there was a multi-vehicle crash at Mile Marker 8. Another traffic tie-up: Martin Mill Pike in South Knoxville, where a crash was reported about 4:30 p.m.
Knoxville police shifted to its Severe Weather Emergency Plan Level 1.
"Most roads are impassable and there are crashes blocking several main routes. We are asking drivers to please stay off the roadways, if possible," the department tweeted.
In Morristown, police activated their inclement weather plan.
Officers will respond to emergency calls for service and traffic crashes involving injury. Motorists involved in crashes in which no one is injured are asked to exchange information at the scene and come to the police department after the weather clears for a police report.
TDOT's Mark Nagi in the Knoxville area region said rain transitioned to snow about 4 p.m.
White Christmas in East Tennessee
Between 4:00 to 5:15 pm, the valley experienced approximately 2.5" of snow accumulation in the grassy areas.
"Crews in District 18 & 19 are treating and plowing. Rain is currently transitioning to snow in D17 (Upper East TN area) now. Crews will continue to treat and plow until all roadways are clear. It is anticipated that all will be working throughout the night as temperatures continue to drop."