Clarksville, TN – A significant winter storm continues to grip Clarksville-Montgomery County, bringing a hazardous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain that is expected to worsen travel conditions through tonight and into Sunday.
Extremely cold temperatures combined with steady precipitation are turning roadways, bridges, and overpasses into sheets of ice, prompting urgent calls for residents to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
Tonight, snow showers, sleet, and freezing rain will continue through the overnight hours, with precipitation transitioning mainly to freezing rain and sleet after 4:00am. Temperatures will drop to around 18 degrees, allowing ice to build up on untreated surfaces.
Forecasters indicate additional ice accumulation between one-tenth and two-tenths of an inch, along with a light dusting of snow and sleet. Even small amounts of ice can make roads nearly impassable, especially on secondary streets and elevated surfaces. Northeast winds of 5 to 10 mph will add to the bitter feel, and visibility may be reduced at times during heavier bursts of precipitation.
Sunday offers little relief. Snow showers, sleet, and freezing rain are expected through much of the day, with sleet potentially falling heavily at times before tapering off late afternoon. High temperatures will struggle to reach 26 degrees, which means little to no melting will occur.
Additional ice accumulation of up to two-tenths of an inch is possible, along with up to an inch of combined snow and sleet. Gusty northwest winds up to 20 mph may lead to blowing precipitation and further reduced visibility.
Officials strongly urge residents to stay indoors and off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Emergency responders and road crews are working, but extreme cold reduces the effectiveness of salt and brine treatments.
Vehicles, including those with four-wheel or all-wheel drive, can easily lose traction on black ice. Staying home helps prevent accidents and allows crews to focus on clearing main routes.
If you must go out, dress in layers, keep a charged phone, and carry emergency supplies in your vehicle. Power outages are also possible due to ice buildup on trees and lines, so prepare with blankets, flashlights, and extra batteries. The safest choice during this storm is to shelter in place until conditions improve.
