The Storm Prediction Center has issued a severe thunderstorm watch for the entire Tennessee Valley region through Thursday evening, with the primary threats being damaging straight-line winds exceeding 70 mph and large hail up to golf-ball size.
A potent upper-level disturbance combining with extreme instability and strong wind shear creates a volatile atmospheric setup across Tennessee, northern Alabama, and northern Georgia.
Schools in several counties have announced early dismissals, and outdoor events across Nashville and Chattanooga have been postponed. Emergency managers urge residents to have multiple ways to receive severe weather warnings.
