Severe weather swept across East Tennessee on Thursday afternoon, triggering both tornado warnings and severe thunderstorm alerts in several counties.
Knoxville Tornado Warning Issued
2:42pm: Considerable threat with golf ball size hail and tornado 🌪️ possible tag with severe storm south of Knoxville!!
Severe Thunderstorm Warning for… Southeastern Knox County in east Tennessee… Northeastern Blount County in east Tennessee… West… https://t.co/PtvnuRG4sm pic.twitter.com/L4riytQMxM
— Tri-Cities Weather & Alert Crew (@wxnotifications) September 4, 2025
According to WBIR, parts of Knox, Anderson, and Roane counties were placed under a tornado warning until 1:30 p.m. EDT. In addition, a severe thunderstorm warning was extended for the same areas until 2 p.m. EDT.
Greene County faced a severe thunderstorm warning until 1:45 p.m., while Washington and Unicoi counties remained under warnings until 1:30 p.m.
Strong Winds, Hail, and Flooding Possible
The storms are expected to bring dangerous wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail the size of quarters. Localized flooding is also possible in low-lying areas.
The National Weather Service (NWS) issued additional severe thunderstorm warnings:
- In Knoxville, Farragut, Solway, Karns, and Powell until 2:45 p.m.
- In Knoxville, Seymour, and Neubert until 2:45 p.m.
The Knoxville News Sentinel reported that East Tennessee currently faces a “marginal risk for severe weather.”
Forecast: More Rain Ahead
Meteorologists explained that the severe weather is being driven by a cold front passing through the region. Another cold front is expected on September 6, which could bring more rain. September 5 is forecasted to remain mostly dry between the two storm systems.
On September 4, storms also swept through Knoxville, with a tornado warning issued for Oak Ridge, Oliver Springs, and Coalfield until 1:30 p.m., according to the NWS.
Safety Precautions for Knoxville Residents
Authorities are urging residents to stay safe as the Knoxville tornado threat continues.
- Move to the lowest, central room of your home, away from windows.
- Prepare for possible power outages.
- Stay indoors and avoid being outside during severe weather.
- Be alert for hail, strong winds, and potential tornadoes.
The National Weather Service warns: “Residents should immediately look for shelter in case of a possible tornado.”
