NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - Middle Tennessee is expecting snowfall late Tuesday and early Wednesday, followed by extreme cold Thursday and Friday.
The Nashville office of the National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Watch for parts of Middle Tennessee from 9 p.m. Tuesday until noon Wednesday. This watch is meant to indicate the high chance of hazardous winter weather and is meant to provide time for people to prepare.
FINDING SHELTERS
According to the Nashville Office of Homeless Services, it will operate its Extreme Weather Overflow Shelter starting today at 7 p.m. and operate until 10 a.m. Tuesday.
Room In The Inn and Nashville Rescue Mission will continue to offer Daily Emergency Shelter options. Launch Pad, a shelter for LGBTQ+ youth, is also available to sign up for online between 6 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
You can stay informed about shelter openings through text alerts by texting OHSALERT to 888-777.
PREPARING YOUR CAR
The first of the snow will arrive Tuesday evening in far northwest Middle Tennessee and parts of Southern Kentucky, which could cause a few slick spots on overpasses and bridges.
To prepare your vehicle for winter weather, check your tires have adequate tread, make sure your car battery is charged and replace wiper blades and windshield wiper solution, according to the NWS.
The NWS recommends keeping an emergency kit in your car that includes blankets, snacks, water, a flashlight, gloves and a small shovel in case of becoming stranded in your car.
PROTECTING YOUR HOME
With the cold weather incoming, the NWS says to prepare both your pipes and gutters for the snowfall. Wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation and let faucets drip to prevent freezing. Be sure to clean your gutters and inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles.
They also recommend checking doors and windows for drafts. To keep heat in, you can also consider thermal curtains or window film.
Be sure to have your heating system inspected and serviced to make sure it is working efficiently. The NWS also recommends keeping a sturdy shovel and plenty of ice melt or rock salt to deal with snow removal on your driveway.
STAYING WARM AND STAYING INFORMED
While Metro Nashville Davidson County offices are closed today in observance of President's Day, emergency operations and responses are still available.
The best way to prepare for any winter weather events is to stay informed. You can keep with weather updates with WSMV on our website or through our weather app.
The NWS also recommends dressing layers, keeping active and staying hydrated.