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Snowstorm Blankets East Tennessee: Knoxville Digs Out from 6 Inches of Snow

Knoxville transformed into a winter wonderland following a heavy snowstorm.

News Summary

Knoxville was transformed into a winter wonderland after a snowstorm on January 10, 2025, dropping 6 inches of snow. While residents enjoyed the scenery, travel became challenging due to slick roads and icy conditions. The Knoxville Police Department worked to ensure safety, while the community rallied to support heating centers and ensure residents had necessary supplies. The weather forecast suggests more snow might fall, encouraging families to enjoy the day while being cautious on the roads.

Snowstorm Blankets East Tennessee: Knoxville Digs Out from 6 Inches of Snow

The delightful city of Knoxville woke up on Saturday to a beautiful winter wonderland, but getting around was definitely a challenge! A hefty snowstorm rolled through East Tennessee on Friday, January 10, 2025, leaving residents with a gorgeous yet tricky landscape.

How Much Snow Fell?

The snow accumulation varied across the region, but it’s safe to say that snow totals ranged from 2 to 5 inches in general. However, Knoxville saw an impressive 6 inches. The heavy snowfall mostly affected areas in the Eastern Valley and foothills, particularly below the I-40 corridor, touching Knox, Blount, Jefferson, Sevier, and Cocke counties. Interestingly, cities like Dandridge, Bean Station, and Morristown didn’t get as much snow as their neighboring towns.

What’s Next?

As we dive into January 11, it looks like a lovely day to play in the snow! Residents are encouraged to bundle up and enjoy the beautiful scenery. But hold on—if you can avoid driving, that’s the best plan. Main routes are being plowed and treated, but side streets are still slick and hazardous due to ice. The Knoxville Police Department has been a busy bunch, keeping an eye on road conditions since Friday’s storm made the streets pretty slick.

Road Conditions and Safety Warnings

By early Saturday morning, many observation sites reported various snow totals, and most main roads and interstates were noted to be in *good condition*. That’s a relief! However, secondary roads remained slick and slushy, making for tricky travel. The National Weather Service has cautioned about *overnight refreezing* that potentially leads to slippery black ice, so drivers should exercise extra caution.

Preparation and Response

Knox County learned some valuable lessons from the snowstorm of 2024 and came prepared this time around. They’ve treated around 500 miles of high-traffic roadways, especially those that lead to hospitals and nursing homes. Spending around $400,000 to restock their salt supply and an additional $100,000-$200,000 upgrading fleet vehicles, the county is doing its best to keep everyone safe on the roads.

Warming Shelters and Community Support

With the rising homeless population in mind, five emergency warming centers in Knoxville operated on extended hours, accommodating a high of 312 individuals the night of the storm. That’s community spirit at its finest! Grocery stores, big-box outlets, and pharmacies even closed early on January 10 in anticipation of the incoming storm, making sure everyone could prepare for the weather.

Transit Services and Schools

The Knoxville Area Transit (KAT) was in full swing, offering free rides while operating on a severe snow routes schedule, ensuring everyone could get to their destinations safely. Schools across East Tennessee also announced closures, giving students a well-deserved day off to enjoy the snowy conditions.

What Lies Ahead?

Looking at the weather forecast, Saturday is expected to maintain mostly cloudy conditions with a high of 34 degrees Fahrenheit. But don’t put your sleds away just yet! An additional inch or two of snow is anticipated overnight into January 12.

So grab your hot cocoa, bundle up, and embrace the magic of winter in Knoxville! Stay safe and warm out there!