Saturday Night Update...

**11:15 PM UPDATE**

Headed to bed. NWS-Nashville's latest forecast drops us down to the 1-2" range..which seems logical enough. Mist is the current precip falling right now. Hope we all see a bunch of snow by sunrise. Will set alarm clock for a little earlier than normal!  By the way, saw a report of 16" on the ground in northwest Tennessee...*WOW*

**9:15 PM UPDATE**

Got a report of sleet in east Nashville from my wife as she and my oldest daughter drive home. Also, see a report from the NWS-Memphis where up to 13" of snow is expected by morning in some sections of West TN.

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The line of snow continues to push eastward.  At this hour (8 pm CST), snow is being reported in Dickson, TN (just west of Nashville) and is moving to the west. Nashville expects to see snow flying in the next hour or so.

Updated forecast reveal we should see 1-3" by morning here in Cookeville.

~More later...

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Snow Expectations Tonight..

****5:50 PM UPDATE***

Just got a report from a trained storm spotter in Memphis who has measured 5" of snow over a 3 hour period. He is using a 'snow board'..which is a measuring device that makes the recording very accurate.  Not a snowboard that people stand on to ride down slopes either! :)

***5:20 PM UPDATE***

These are snow pictures from Memphis...*WOW*...

Looks like most of Middle Tennessee will see a snow event overnight and into Sunday morning. It is already snowing in Memphis and extreme West Tennessee as evidenced in my prior post. Here in the Cookeville area, we don't expect to see any snow until late tonight.  Temperatures are, however, dropping across Middle Tennessee at this hour. 

The heaviest of the snow appears to track into southern sections of Middle TN toward the Alabama border.  They will measure 3+ while we will need A LOT of help to reach 2" here in the immediate Cookeville area.  The Storm Prediction Center did use the phrase 'the main concern lies with the slow nature of the system and potentially anomalous overall snow totals for the region'...what that means in laymen's terms is this....some could measure snow depths MUCH HIGHER than the original forecasted amounts.  I do not think this is the case here in Cookeville, but could be the case in some spots to our south and certainly to our west...

A couple of cool tools to look at....

• Wunderground's WunderMap...
  
• NWS-NASHVILLE Website
• NWS-MEMPHIS Website

Remember, the NWS-NASHVILLE is only predicting around 1/2 inch of snow here in Cookeville, so don't get too upset if we don't have that much by in the morning!! This is a tricky system for the computer models to predict.  Some people will be REAL HAPPY with much more accumulation than expected while some will be disappointed! 

The latest forecast should be out in a little while and I'll post it once released.

Memphis Snow

You can see it snowing in Memphis by going to the TDOT Website.  The above picture is a camera that is at Mile Marker 20 on I-40 heading OUT of Memphis.  The bridge over the Mississippi River heading into Arkansas is snow covered and hazardous at this hour.
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Compare that shot to this one of my hometown of Cookeville about 4 hours down Interstate 40!!

Cold Saturday (Snow Possible Later)

***1:30 PM UPDATE***

No changes, right now, in our thinking.  Rain this afternoon will switch over to a mix after dark and then to all snow after midnight.  I see nothing, at this point, to indicate more accumulation (other than an inch or two) here in Cookeville.  As always, will keep on watching this developing situation and repost as conditions warrant!!

Both maps can be enlarged with a click!

I'll begin by saying this is a complicated weather event.  The exact timing of the rain changing to snow is a little difficult to predict right now.  Additionally, the exact amount of snow is a gamble at this point.  Here is what we know....

Rain today with temperatures holding mostly steady around 40°....with a WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY for tonight as temperatures fall and the rain is mixing with and eventually changing over to all snow.  Total snow accumulations could be as high as 2" for us with higher accumulations to our west. 

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Like I said earlier, our friends west of us will see more accumulation than here in Cookeville. A WINTER STORM WARNING has been issued for much of West Tennessee and North Mississippi where 3 or more inches of snow will be common. I won't be surprised to see some accumulations of snow reach 6" in the warned area.  Memphis-NWS office link

I will continue to update my weather blog as conditions warrant.  You can also catch me on Facebook.  The link is to the right of this post. Feel free to add me as a friend.  If you're thinking I won't accept your friend request, just put a little note in there about reading my blog!

Have a great day..and watch for the SNOW! :)

Special Weather Statement

SPECIAL WEATHER STATEMENT
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE 

NASHVILLE TN
329 PM CST FRI FEB 27 2009

...WINTER WEATHER OUTLOOK FOR MIDDLE TENNESSEE SATURDAY NIGHT...

A COLD FRONT MOVED THROUGH MIDDLE TENNESSEE ON FRIDAY, BRINGING
NORTH WINDS AND COOLER AIR TO THE REGION. ANOTHER LOW PRESSURE
SYSTEM WILL MOVE JUST SOUTH OF THE MID STATE TONIGHT, BRINGING
MORE PRECIPITATION TO MIDDLE TENNESSEE. THE WARM FRONT WILL REMAIN
TO OUR SOUTH, KEEPING THE MID STATE IN THE COLD SECTOR.

IN THE MEANTIME, A STRONG UPPER LEVEL LOW WILL CUT ACROSS THE
TENNESSEE VALLEY TOMORROW NIGHT, PRODUCING ADDITIONAL
PRECIPITATION, THIS TIME IN THE FORM OF SNOW AS TEMPERATURES
DROP BELOW FREEZING. ACCUMULATIONS ARE EXPECTED TO AVERAGE 1 TO 2
INCHES ACROSS THE MID STATE, WITH THE HEAVIEST AMOUNTS OCCURRING
SOUTH OF THE NASHVILLE METROPOLITAN AREA.

TEMPERATURES WILL REMAIN BELOW FREEZING UNTIL SUNDAY MORNING,
MEANING THAT THE SNOW WILL STICK TO ROAD SURFACES, MAKING FOR
HAZARDOUS DRIVING CONDITIONS. MOTORISTS ARE THEREFORE URGED TO
PLAN ACCORDINGLY.

$$

ROSE



This weather bulletin was brought to you by:

www.nashvilleweather.net

Rain Today, Snow Tomorrow

Showers are rumbling through our area with the occasional clap of thunder.  The earlier Severe Thunderstorm Watch has been canceled.

The radar snap is current as of 6:25 a.m.  It shows a heavy line of rain just past the Cookeville area.

WARM FRIDAY, SNOW LATE SATURDAY
Moving on to the rest of our Friday, we expect highs today in the middle 60's this afternoon with showers mainly to our south.  A second batch of precipitation should overrun our area later this evening.  Cold air pours in for Saturday and with an upper level low pressure system, we could see some light snow accumulations in Cookeville on Saturday night (around 1-2" are possible).  Sunday is expected to be cold as well with flurries hanging around!

*Latest, Local Forecast*

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK
Finally, on the last day, we discuss NOAA Weather Radio . This is the voice of the National Weather Service . It provides weather broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. 95% of all people in Tennessee can pick up a transmission on one of seven channels ranging from 162.400-162.550.
The NWS prepares the information that is put out on the Weather Radio.
IT is VERY USEFUL during inclement weather.
It is useful all the time.
Some weather radios have SAME (Specific Area Message Encoding) technology. This will produce an audible warning for your area, if necessary...very helpful at night during severe/tornadic weather.
Here in Cookeville, you can receive NOAA Weather Radio broadcasts on 162.400

Thanks for reading the information each day during Severe Weather Awareness Week.
A brochure is available via download by going to this site .

Very Nice Day Ahead (Big Changes Coming)

TODAY-SATURDAY
Highs on Thursday (today) will run all the way up to the middle 60's.  Winds could gust to 30 mph. Changes begin overnight as strong storms are possible after midnight. Windy again tonight with gusts to 35 mph. Showers and Thunderstorms for Friday with highs in the upper 50's. More rain on Friday night with a low around 40°..then for Saturday, rain..possibly mixing with and then changing to snow with the snow continuing on Saturday night.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

VIDEO FORECASTS AHEAD??
I've had a couple of requests about doing video forecasts.  I'll be investigating what it will take to accomplish that. If anyone has any suggestions, pass them along to me!

FLOODING
Severe Weather Awareness Week continues in Tennessee.  Today's topic is Flash Flooding. There is a phrase that says "Turn Around, Don't Drown". Did you know that Flooding and Flash Flooding are the number one weather-related killer?  I didn't either.  Most flood deaths occur at night and when people become trapped in automobiles that stall in areas that are flooded.  So, "Turn Around, Don't Drown"...

Decent Wednesday Ahead...

WEDNESDAY WEATHER AHEAD!
Some sunshine today with highs in the middle 50's here in Middle TN.  Radar indicates a few showers in West Tennessee this morning.  Our chances for rain increase tonight and stick with us through Saturday night. By Sunday, it COULD (didn't say would) end as snow showers.  Folks, I only talk about the weather and don't make it!!  The good news is cold air doesn't stick around long this time of year!

*Latest, Local Forecast*

FEBRUARY RAINFALL AMOUNTS
Speaking of rain, we're a little short for February.  Currently, I've measured just 2.05" while February averages 4.72"...the last four years, we've only averaged 3.75" during February. Do you enjoy seeing how much rain we get? Would you be willing to participate in the measurement and reporting? Then, consider joining CoCoRaHS today.

TORNADO AWARENESS & DRILL DAY
As I've told you over the last few days, this is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Tennessee.  Today, we focus on tornadoes.  It is nature's most violent storm. A tornado is a violent, rotating column of air that extends from the base of a thunderstorm and is in contact with the ground.  March, April, and May are the months we are most prone to see tornadoes while our secondary season is in the fall (November/December). They can, however, occur in any month. No location, time of day or time of year is immune from a tornado. Have a plan for yourself and family during a tornado watch (which means conditions are favorable for development of tornadoes) and a tornado warning (one has been spotted either on radar or by a trained spotter)..if a warning is issued for your area, take cover immediately.

More information on Severe Weather Awareness week is available via brochure. Click here to get it!

WEATHER HISTORY...
1894...A major snowstorm brings big accumulations to Middle TN. Carthage receives 15", Byrdstown 14", and Franklin 11".

Nice Day Ahead

THAT NASTY BURNING SMELL
Yesterday, I told you all about an issue with a 'burning smell' inside of our home.  It kind of freaks you out to wake up to something like that!!  Turns out, an electrical component (called a high limiter) failed on our heating unit and began to arc (that'd be sparking, for you regular folk).  The arcing caused the part and wiring to melt..but it was limited to just that part.  Made a big ol' foul smell though.  The heat and air folks were out in less than 30 minutes and got us fixed up!!  Part was under warranty, too! :)

TODAY'S OUTLOOK
OK...on to the weather..not a bad day (for winter) in store here.  A partly sunny day ahead with highs near 50°....take a warm jacket for today as you leave this morning...after a cool evening tonight, rain chances begin to increase on Wednesday and Thursday. Along with that increased rain chances come warmer temperatures. We will definitely take that!

*Latest, Local Forecast*

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK
As we've pointed out the last two days, this is Severe Weather Awareness Week in Tennessee.  Today's focus is on Lightning.  It is called the 'underrated killer'. Lightning charges can reach 100 million volts. Tall trees, light poles, and telephone lines are frequent targets for lightning strikes. Lightning is always a potential killer and safety precautions are a MUST in any storm.  Remember, lightning can and does strike miles away from the parent storm. There are safety rules online in the brochure put out by the National Weather Service.
One last thing, the group most likely to be struck by lightning...FARMERS...followed closely by GOLFERS!

TODAY IN HISTORY
1967--Record lows for this date set in Nashville (10°) and Crossville (2°)
1998--80 inches of snow falls on Alta, Utah

Cold Monday Start...

WHAT IS THAT BURNING SMELL?
Woke up this morning to lows in the teens!  Also, have a burning smell in our home.  Like an electrical burning smell.  *YUCK*  Have called our Heating and Cooling people (Air Experts) as it seems to be coming through the duct work.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

WARMING TREND AHEAD!
Temperatures are expected to climb in to the upper 30's under a sunny sky today!  Another cold night tonight with lows in lower 20's and then a nice warming trend through the end of the week.

SEVERE WEATHER AWARENESS WEEK
This is Severe Weather Awareness Week across Tennessee.  Today's focus is on Severe Thunderstorms. They can happen with little or no warning. ALL Thunderstorms are capable of producing deadly lightning. There is a brochure you can download by clicking here.

WEATHER HISTORY
1909...Nashville measures 3.69" of rainfall
1987...Flagstaff, Arizona receives 31" of snowfall from a major winter storm

Cold Sunday Morning...

We awake to temperatures in the lower 20's and a nice coating of snow on the ground.  I've measured one-half (.5) inch of accumulation.

There is a slight chance for snow flurries for today...although, the sun is doing it's best to come out as I post.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

On This Date in History...
1874-
Nashville records 2.58" of rain for a 2-day total of 5.36"
1997-
New York City enjoys record highs of 69°...

Severe Weather Awareness Week...
February 22-27 has been designated as Severe Weather Awareness Week in Tennessee.  A pdf copy of the brochure is available on the Nashville National Weather Service Website. 

Today, Sunday, February 22nd is designated as Skywarn Day. Trained spotters come from all walks of life and are a tremendous help to the National Weather Service. Storm Spotters are the 'eyes and ears' on the ground. Sometimes radar can't tell the whole story, but the spotters can! Tom Johnstone with the NWS-Nashville is the person who goes out and trains groups of people on how to spot storms. If your group would like to be trained, call Tom at 615-754-4634.

Overnight Snow

Nice snow in TN!

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Finally Back Home (Snow!)

We made it back from Louisville, KY just a bit ago.  Went in and out of rain/snow about 9 times.  The cold air chased us all the way back.  Didn't see any accumulation until we got here.  Would call it a dusting.  The heaviest of the snow is quickly moving through our area right now (9:40 pm).

Heard a report of 77 people at the Storm Spotter's Training Class today! AWESOME..having that many folks trained to watch the sky during severe weather is a valuable asset for our community.  Big thanks to all who made it.  Go take your test online and get your ID card.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Cold Sunday with a slight chance of flurries early.

If you can't get to church tomorrow, check out mine by clicking here for Trinity Assembly!  You can view the services live at 8:30 am and 10:30 am...

Snow in TN

Saw moderate to heavy snow earlier in Portland BUT that turned to rain upon nearing Gallatin. Raining in Mt. Juliet at 6:15 and 40.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Snow in KY

Traveling back to TN right now. Mix in Louisville when we left around 1:30. Stopped for gas in Elizabethtown and snow began falling heavily. Now in Bowling Green at 3:45 and it is all rain and 41.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Boat Show Fun

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Big Boats & Big Fun

Hanging out at Houseboat show with family in Louisville, KY
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

A Beautiful City!

I must say that my small town (Cookeville, TN...population 28,000) has to be one of the more beautiful places to live in the U.S. The evidence is the picture above from our local Emergency Management Agency webcam!

One more reminder about Storm Spotter's Training Class...it is open to the public, is free, and starts tomorrow, Saturday, at Cookeville Regional Medical Center.  Get there before 11 a.m. and learn how to spot storms and how to be able to report those storms to the proper authorities.

Very Nice Friday..

**Don't forget about the Storm Spotter's training class on Saturday at CRMC. It is conducted by the National Weather Service and is very interesting. Starts at 11 am!!...No registration necessary**

A beautiful day is on tap for us here in Middle Tennessee.  While we'll see sunny skies, temperatures will reach into the lower 40's this afternoon.  The great news is there will be very little wind.

Currently, as I post, it is 17°....our little pond by our back patio has frozen once again.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Rain comes in for Saturday and that rain should transition to snow before ending on Saturday night. Not expecting any accumulation.

Sunday is sunny once again, but cold with highs only the middle 30's.

Have a great Friday!

Cold Across Tennesse Tonight!

Chilly temperatures are the rule across the Volunteer State tonight under a clear sky.  We expect teens here in the Upper Cumberland region of eastern Middle Tennessee.  Toss another log on the fire and another blanket on the bed.

Sunny and 45° on Friday. With minimal winds, it should feel nice. A little warmer on Friday night, but we'll still go below freezing. Saturday should warm to 50° or more as a strong southerly flow influences our weather. Winds could race to more than 30 mph. Saturday night is tricky as we expect a possible changeover to snow before it all ends by sunrise Sunday.

Sunday's highs will only be in the mid 30's and teens on Sunday night for lows while Monday is sunny, but chilly with highs around 40°.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Bundle Up..Chilly Days Ahead!

Big temperature difference today across Middle TN as highs will be 30° lower than yesterday with blustery north west wind around 15-20 mph.  It will feel much colder than the thermometer reads!

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Several reports in our area on Wednesday of hail.  One report from law enforcement of a wall cloud.  Doppler radar indicated a possible tornado in the same area.  No significant damage reported..that is the good news.

Enjoy your Thursday...and remember, go to the Storm Spotters class this Saturday.  Information is at the top of the page!

Tornado Watch Cancelled

The Tornado Watch covering 32 counties has been cancelled. Enjoy the pretty day.
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Hail in Cookeville

Just fell at 208 pm
Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

Possible Strong Storms Later Today

**12:30 PM LUNCH UPDATE**
Quick update while gobbling down some lunch. A Tornado Watch has been issued for most of Middle TN through 5 p.m. The watch includes most of South Central Kentucky also. Please remember that a WATCH means conditions are favorable for the possible development of tornadoes in and around the watch area.

As you can see on the Cookeville webcam, the sun has popped out.  This is adding FUEL to the destabilization of the atmosphere.  Please refresh my site by clicking on the header that says "Cookeville Weather Guy" above to get latest updates as well as the latest counties that have severe weather warnings.

~More later as conditions warrant.
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A warm front will continue to push temperatures upward this morning here in Cookeville, TN.  We are continuing to monitor a strong cold front that will cross our area later today.  This front could set off some strong storms this afternoon.

Speaking of rain, we recorded nearly 1 inch overnight (.91") in the handy CoCoRaHS Professional Rain Gauge. CoCoRaHS is a wonderful organization and we will be recruiting volunteers during the month of March!

*Latest, Local Forecast*

After a very warm day today (temperatures in the 60's later), we'll return to winter tonight through at least next Monday.  There are several chances for snow in the forecast also.

Enjoy your Wednesday.

Special Weather Statement

Things will go downhill late tonight and on Wednesday for Middle Tennessee.  Severe Weather is possible.

*Special Weather Statement*

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Severe Weather Possible Tonight and Wednesday

*Hazardous Weather Outlook*

We expect a very nice day today.  Bright sunshine under a clear sky with highs in the 50's. The weather changes quickly after midnight tonight as a front approaches. We may see storms reach severe limits. Wednesday's forecast brings much of the same with chances of severe weather. After the front moves through, the severe weather goes away and is replaced with COLD temps. Snow chances appear for Wednesday night and Thursday. They reappear for Friday night and Saturday. Nothing major at this point, but it is worth mentioning.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Interesting Week Ahead

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!
Tennessee winters tend to have a little of everything. This week will be no different. We expect highs today to only reach the middle 40's. There is a slight chance (about 20%) for rain. Decreasing clouds and colder overnight with lows in the mid 20's. Monday should be cool again with highs in the 40's.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

EXTENDED LOOK...snow??
Warmer on Tuesday as a chance of storms enters our picture on Tuesday night and Wednesday. Cold air returns and we can't rule out some snow by week's end.  Like I said, a little bit of everything in the upcoming week. We'll get a little more detailed as the week plays out.

PRAYER NEEDED
Condolences go out to my weather friend, Kevin Shaw. His mom passed away yesterday. She and his father live just east of me in a nice, small town called Pleasant Hill, TN. Kevin is an NWS observer and cartographer for NOAA located in Maryland.  His mom was 85.  Keep Kevin and his family in your prayers.

SUNDAY MORNING CHURCH!
If you don't have a church home and would like to visit a church (provided you live in the Middle TN area), I recommend joining me and my family at Trinity Assembly .  If you're out of our area or unable to attend, you view our services live on the internet by clicking here.

Warm Valentines Day (Rain Moving Out)

Happy Valentine's Day to all my readers.  I appreciate each of you. It'll be quite nice today with highs in the middle 50's here in the Cookeville area.  Most of the rain has moved on to our east.

Received several very nice comments concerning the newspaper article on the Storm Spotters Class .  Some made wisecracks..but that is ok, too!  Will have an announcement put at the top of the page on the Spotter Class Information through next Saturday.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

THIS WEEK IN WEATHER HISTORY
(courtesy of: Bill Murray)
Birth of a Weather Service...
1870: After a deadly season of storms on the Great Lakes in 1868, Professor Increase Lapham of Milwaukee thought something needed to be done.  He believed that a warning system was feasible. He proposed it to Congressman Halbert Paine. A bill was introduced to create a weather observation and warning service, to be operated by the U.S. Army Signal Corps. The bill passed and was signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on February 9th, 1870. Twenty-four stations transmitted their first observations by telegraph on November 1, 1870. Civilians hired by the Corps produced the first forecasts. The U.S. National Weather Service was born from this inauspicious beginning!

1985-A building falls in Western Michigan due to the snow pack being so heavy

Middle TN Weather History for Feb. 14th

On February 14, 1902...
Nashville receives 8" of snow.
On February 14, 1905...
Temperature drops to a frigid -23 at Hohenwald, and -22 at Tullahoma, establishing all-time record lows at both spots.On February 14, 1948...
The Buffalo River at Lobelville reaches its highest stage ever recorded -- 26.0', which is 16.0' above flood stage. The Duck River at Columbia reaches its highest stage ever recorded -- 51.8', which is 19.8' above flood stage. The Duck River at Hurricane Mills reaches its highest stage ever recorded -- 30.7', which is 6.7' above flood stage.

Nice Friday Ahead (Rain Later)

Highs around 60° today!  Skies will cloud up as we anticipate rain tonight and again on Saturday.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

NWS-Nashville survey on Fentress County/Clarkrange tornado
(includes pictures of damage, too)

Don't forget about Storm Spotters Training Class next Saturday (Feb 21st) from 11 am - 2 pm at Cookeville Regional Medical Center.  See post below this one for more info.

Severe Weather Awareness Week is Feb. 22-27 (pdf format)

This Date in Weather History for Middle TN...

On February 13, 1880...
Nashville records greatest one-day rainfall for February, with 5.20". This caps off a three-day total of 7.65", another Nashville record.
On February 13, 1899...
McMinnville sets its all-time record low with a reading of -26 degrees, along with Byrdstown at -19. Nashville's -13 sets a record low for February, as does Clarksville, at -14.
On February 13, 1952...
F4 tornado tears through Moore and Franklin Counties, moving through or near Lois, Marble Hill, Beech Hill, Marble Plains, and Decherd. There is damage to 109 farms. Hundreds of trees are downed in Lois and Marble Hill. Over a hundred homes are damaged or destroyed in Franklin County. A church, a school, a store, and a home are destroyed at Beech Hill. Two people are killed in Marble Plains, and one more in Dechard. Storm continues into Grundy County, producing an F2 which rips a path from Monteagle to Tracy City. The damage in Monteagle is estimated at $110,000, and $90,000 in Tracy City. About 150 buildings are affected. One person is injured in each town. A total of 4 fatalities are reported in the three counties, with 46 injuries. Overall, 5 tornadoes are reported across Middle Tennessee.
On February 13, 1962...
Temperature at Nashville reaches 84, setting a record high for the month. Crossville's reading of 79 sets a February mark there, as well.

Warm Winter Day Ahead!

How does temperatures near 60° sound on this February 12th day?  Not too bad!  It is the 200th anniversary of the birth of Abraham Lincoln.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Many storm reports came in from yesterday's strong winds and brief, heavy rainfall.  Here is a list

STORM SPOTTER TRAINING CLASS
This is a good opportunity to talk about the upcoming Storm Spotter's Training Classes.  For those of you who live in the Putnam County area, our training will take place on Saturday, February 21st from 11 am-2 pm at Cookeville Regional Medical Center.  No registration is necessary.  You may call the Emergency Management Office for more information at 931-528-7575 or show up that day at CRMC.  Go in the outpatient entrance and follow signs to the Education Room!

Strong Storms and Wind Damage Possible Today

*****12:50 PM UPDATE*****

Home for lunch, listening to scanner...leading edge of storms moving through Smith County and into western Putnam County.  Several trees reported down across county in various locations, including Cookeville Boat Dock Road near Little Dodge Market. Another near Buck Mtn. Road and Brotherton Mtn. Road.  Western Putnam County under Severe Thunderstorm Warning along with other counties bordering ours. (Clay, Jackson, Macon, Overton, and Smith)....localized rotation reported in counties to our west by radar. Trees reported snap in half in Marshall County.  Tornado warning now for Dekalb, Warren, and Cannon Counties.

****10:30 AM UPDATE****

We've recorded a 36 mph wind gust and other areas are reporting gusts of more than 40 mph.  A TORNADO WATCH (meaning conditions are favorable for development) has been issued through 6 pm tonight.  Updated forecast says wind gusts could reach 50 mph today.  Be careful!  ...expect storms to pop in the Cookeville area after 1:15 pm.

A very strong line of storms has crossed over the Mississippi River into west Tennessee this morning.  These storms are moving quickly to the east.  They've contained 40-50 mph wind gusts.  While I want people to take this situation VERY SERIOUSLY, I do not want to create unnecessary fear in some.

Last night, in Oklahoma, these storms spawned many tornadoes.  Up to fifteen have been reportedly killed.

The expectation of the storm's arrival is around 10-11 a.m. for the Nashville metro area while we should see them arrive here between 1 and 2 this afternoon.  Strong winds ahead of the arrival could make driving difficult, especially for SUV's, pickup trucks, and tractor-trailers.

My friend, Erik, with Memphis Weather is doing a good job reporting from his area.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

A wind advisory is in effect through 6 pm this afternoon.

Please keep an eye on the weather via NOAA Weather Radio, Local TV & Radio, or via the web.

Again, I don't want to create unnecessary fear, but this is a potentially strong to severe developing weather situation that demands our attention.

This is a good time to mention the next Storm Spotter's Class for Putnam County is being held on Saturday, February 21st at CRMC.

Strong Weather Ahead...

Today's severe weather will be over all of Arkansas, much of Louisiana, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Texas.  Our (Middle TN) severe threat arrives on Wednesday.  Today would be an excellent day for ALL SCHOOLS in Tennessee to practice their tornado/severe weather drills.  Since we've not experienced severe weather in several months, I'm sure many haven't even thought about it.

TORNADO SAFETY TIPS
Remember, if you're in a car...stay in it during lightning events, you are safe.  If however, a tornado is spotted, DO NOT try to out run it.  Find a low-spot if no sturdy building is available.  Get out and cover your head with your hands.  Also, NEVER, EVER crawl under an overpass..this is very dangerous. People have been sucked out of these and killed.  At home, have a plan...determine the safest place in your home.  An inside closet or bathroom..have something to cover yourself with...if you have a NOAA Weather Radio...leave it on or in severe weather mode.  Most of the new ones have a setting that covers this. If you don't have one, it would be an excellent time to go purchase a good Weather Radio. It can save your life.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

In my previous post , I gave some useful links...be sure to review them.

Severe Weather Possible for Wednesday

We are quickly closing in on a possible severe weather situation. In the next 36 hours, conditions will be ripe for strong straight-line winds and the possibility of tornadic activity here in the Cookeville, TN area.

I expect a number of watches and warnings to be issued as conditions warrant. The Storm Prediction Center (SPC) out of Norman, OK has us in the 'slight' range.  As Davis Nolan, from News 2-Nashville, says "I've seen many severe outbreaks when the chances are slight."

Severe Weather Awareness Website

Jackson, TN Weather
Memphis, TN Weather

*Latest, Local Forecast*

*Cookeville/Putnam County Emergency Management Weather Site*

Near Record Highs Today!

SOME WILL SEE RECORD HIGHS!
Much of Tennessee will push their record highs today.  Here in Cookeville, we'll hit 70°...that is about 3° off our record set in 2001.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

BEST WEEKEND IN A WHILE
It was a beautiful weekend here.  Each day was in the 60's.  A nice break from the cold winter.  We haven't had that nice of a stretch of days since the 3-day period after Christmas. I don't think our central gas heat has run since Thursday.  Good thing since our utility bill was nearly 400 bucks! :(

THUNDERSTORM CHANCES AHEAD
We are looking at storm chances on Tuesday and Wednesday.  There is particular concern for strong winds with these thunderstorms for Wednesday.  The National Weather Service has been pointing to this event for that last few days. Know your plan for severe weather. It is never too early to figure out what you'll do, where you'll go, etc.

JANUARY PRECIP RECAP
Some of you have been asking me about our January precipitation.  We recorded 5.96" of rainfall here in Cookeville and 1.1 inches of snow.  I know many of you saw more snow than we did. The 5.96" is more than our average January of 5.10"....in the last 6 years, we've only averaged 4.44" of rain in January.  Looking ahead to February, we typically see 4.72" although the last four years have yielded just 3.75" each year.

Can You Believe This Day?

It is absolutely gorgeous outside today!  Here in Cookeville, temperatures will hit the mid 60's this afternoon while some locations in Tennessee will push 70.

*Latest, Local Forecast* 

Sunday gives us slight chance for rain...but a sunny Monday with warmer temperatures.  Watching for rain again during the mid-week and possibly thunderstorms for late-week.  Have to keep an eye on a potentially severe threat on Wednesday night/Thursday.

Enjoy this wonderful day! I'm watching my 16 month-old daughter snooze...life is good.

Chamber of Commerce Weather!

The next several days will feature fantastic (Chamber) weather in Middle Tennessee.  Sunny skies and middle 50's today..even warmer (60's) with the same sunny skies for your Saturday! I may want to get out and chase the little, white golf ball.  Not bad for early February.  The longer-term forecast looks favorable through most of next week.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Our kids are back in school after missing most of this week. I believe (could be off by a day or so) they are closing in on using all 13 'snow days' for this school year.

1 Year Ago Today

A deadly tornado struck three counties in Middle Tennessee one year ago today.  Residents in Sumner, Trousdale, and Macon took shelter as an EF-3 tornado ripped through the several communities in these counties.  Hardest hit was the town of Lafayette, where a large neighborhood near the Lafayette Golf Course took a direct hit.  A natural gas line was severed in Trousdale County.  The ensuing fire could be seen from our the Cookeville webcam, some 70 miles away.  22 people alone in these three counties were killed.  More than 60 were injured.

National Weather Service-Nashville Blog Post by Mark Rose

Video from CNN

Other areas hit in Tennessee included Union University in Jackson. Overall, 28 were killed across Tennessee with more than 150 injuries. Pictures here

Remembering 1 year later from MemphisWX.net post

As many of you know, I have family in Macon County.  It was a difficult time after the tornado finding my wife's uncle.  He was eventually safe and sound. Macon County photos here and here from the Tennessean .

You can go back through my 'blog archive' section and find articles relating to this tornadic outbreak by clicking here .

Bitterly Cold Air Here (60's by Weekend)

(Picture is courtesy of Kent from TNHills.com)

Cold air with strong winds and snow has invaded the Cookeville, TN area.  It feels more like Chicago than Middle Tennessee today.  Expectations are for temperatures to rise to the 20's later this afternoon and the snow should taper off.  Overnight lows are going to be right back down near 10° once again under a clear sky.

*Latest, Local Forecast *

WARMING UP!
The great news ahead is a warming trend.  Latest forecasting models show 60's for both Saturday and Sunday.  We'll stay above normal for several days after we get through this cold spell.

From the Nat'l Weather Service...
...SNOWFALL TOTALS ENDING AT 645 AM THIS MORNING...

SNOWFALL OCCURRED OVERNIGHT ACROSS THE NORTHERN AND CENTRAL
PORTIONS OF THE CUMBERLAND PLATEAU. MANY ROADS ARE SNOW COVERED
AND HAZARDOUS ACROSS THE PLATEAU AREA.

THE FOLLOWING ARE SNOW AMOUNTS FROM VARIOUS COUNTIES ENDING AT
645 AM THIS MORNING.

PICKETT...ONE HALF INCH. FENTRESS...2 INCHES. OVERTON...1 TO 2
INCHES. PUTNAM...A DUSTING TO AN INCH WITH ISOLATED 2 INCH
AMOUNTS. WHITE...A DUSTING. CUMBERLAND...1 INCH.

Putnam Schools Closed

Due to snow overnight, Putnam County Schools (as well as others along the plateau region) are closed today, Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2009.

~More later...

Blustery Afternoon (Snow Overnight)

*****9:30 PM UPDATE*****
It's 12° and the light snow is blowing around.  Accumulating on cars and protected areas.  It is a very dry, powdery snow. Won't do much to accumulate otherwise.  That isn't fog on the WEBCAM, it is SNOW! :)


***5:40 PM UPDATE***

Temperatures are down to 14° with wind chills in around 4.5°

Will probably need to see lows revised downward.

***4:15 PM UPDATE***

Down 2 more degrees to 19° in just 15 minutes. WCI is 10°

***4:00 PM UPDATE***

Temperatures are falling fast.  

Already down to 21° here. Wind chill 15°...

Portland (near KY/TN line) is 16° with 1° wind chill

Livingston (just north of me) is 18° with 3° wind chill

Temps are 20-25° colder in northern TN than southern

Chattanooga is 43° at this hour

Band of snow crossing into Tennessee

The strong cold front has slid southward and very strong west northwest winds (WNW) are making temperatures feel very chilly.  Current feels like (or wind chill) is running in the teens here in Cookeville, TN and even colder back to our northwest.

Temperatures at 2:00 pm across Tennessee
*Middle TN*
28° in Cookeville (wind chill 17°) Gusting to 19 mph
29° in Nashville (wind chill 18°) Gusting to 25 mph
*Northwest Middle TN*
21° in Clarksville (wind chill 6°) Gusting to 30 mph
20° in Paris (wind chill 5°) Gusting to 26 mph
*East TN*
34° in Knoxville (wind chill 21°) Gusting to 31 mph
45° in Chattanooga winds Gusting to 28 mph
*West TN*
31° in Jackson (wind chill 17°) Gusting to 35 mph
25° in Huntingdon (wind chill 11°) Gusting to 30 mph

Middle TN Weather History (from NWS)
**February 3rd**
1886-Nashville measures biggest snow ever in February with 9.8"
1970-Gainesboro received 8"-it's biggest ever
1997-Lightning strike injures workers at MTSU & knocks out power to 500 homes
1998-Big snowstorm on Plateau closes I-40 near Monterey for 18 hours backing up traffic for 13 miles.  Winds gust to 50 mph and 100,000 lose electricity.  TEMA reports damages of more than 5 million dollars.

We expect more rounds of snow (even though it is currently sunny) later this evening. Slippery road conditions are being reported in Kentucky by their state troopers around Bowling Green.

Davis Nolan at News 2 in Nashville reports wind chills could be dangerous (below zero) tonight.

Turning Bitterly Cold Tonight (Snow Coming!)

More snow is on it's way today to the Cookeville, TN area.  Snow, in advance of a cold front, will be with us most of the afternoon and into the evening.  Very cold temperatures are on tap for us tonight as lows will drop to the mid teens.  Combine the cold with blustery winds and we'll see wind chills in the ZERO degree range.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Minor accumulations can be expected with this snow event for today and tonight.  We'll watch the road conditions closely for any slick spots.

News 2 post about cold air coming
Jackson (TN) Weather post concerning cold

After we get past this cold spell, 50's and 60's are on tap for us on Friday and Saturday.  Any snow we receive will be short-lived.

Have a safe Tuesday. I'm off to visit with our Emergency Operations Center Director about the upcoming Storm Spotters Training Class that will be held at Cookeville Regional Medical Center on February 21st.

Cookeville, TN Snow Pictures

Monterey, TN Snow Photo

From my good friend, Kent Bilbrey, who lives in Monterey.

Very Nice Morning Snow! (Putnam Schools 2 hours late)

****7:39 AM UPDATE****
Putnam County school officials have decided to go ahead and close schools today (Monday, February 2nd, 2009) due to snow and road conditions.  Originally, they were going two hours late.

Nearly 2" of snow has blanketed the Upper Cumberland region of Tennessee overnight.  It is very pretty!  Should have pictures up soon for you all to see.  We go from a high of 60° yesterday to snow...quite amazing.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

Temperatures will rise in to the mid 40's this afternoon.  Schools in several counties, ours included, are running on a 2-hour delay.  Some, like Jackson and Overton, are closed.

I'll post more later.

Super Bowl Sunday!

VERY NICE SUNDAY
What a beautiful Sunday here in Middle Tennessee! Temperatures have cracked the 60° mark today. I'm sure many of you will be watching the Arizona Cardinals take on the Pittsburg Steelers. Personally, I'd like to see the Cardinals under the direction of Kurt Warner win the game. He is a class act.

WHAT ABOUT OUR SNOW?
Our snow chances for Monday have all but evaporated. We have a meager chance for snow showers on Monday night along with a better chance on Tuesday. I'm not encouraged about any accumulation. The cold air I spoke of last night is on it's way to us once again. Lows will be in the teens on both Tuesday and Wednesday nights with daytime highs struggling to reach 30°.

*Latest, Local Forecast*

SPOTTER CLASS ANNOUNCED
This year's Spotter Training Class for Cookeville has been announced. It is scheduled for Saturday, February 21st at Cookeville Regional Medical Center.

To sign up, contact Tyler Smith, EMA Director at btsmith@cpcema.com. He can reserve a spot for you. I will be sure to promote the class quite a bit over the next couple of weeks.