Tennessee Faces Dangerous Multi-Night Freeze as Sub-Zero Wind Chills and Near-Zero Lows Grip the Region All Week
TENNESSEE — A prolonged and dangerous cold spell is underway across Middle Tennessee, with life-threatening cold conditions expected tonight and recurring through the week, according to National Weather Service data from Nashville.
Forecasters warn that cold weather alerts are in effect from 7 PM tonight through 11 AM Tuesday, with many areas likely to remain below freezing for much of the week, offering little daytime relief.
Overnight Lows Near Zero Across Middle Tennessee
The latest “most likely low temperature” forecast shows widespread near-zero conditions across the region by early Tuesday morning:
- Clarksville: 0°F
- Waverly: 0°F
- Nashville: 1°F
- Lafayette: −1°F
- Smithville: 1°F
- Columbia: 2°F
- Waynesboro: 3°F
- Tullahoma: 5°F
These readings represent one of the coldest nights of the season, particularly dangerous due to persistent wind.
Wind Chills Drop to −5°F to −25°F
While air temperatures alone are severe, wind chill values are the primary threat. Forecasts show feels-like temperatures plunging between −5°F and −25°F, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
At these levels:
- Frostbite can occur on exposed skin in 10–30 minutes
- Hypothermia risk increases rapidly
- Outdoor exposure becomes dangerous without proper protection
Cold Alerts and Warnings in Effect
The National Weather Service has issued a combination of:
- Cold Weather Advisories
- Extreme Cold Watches
- Extreme Cold Warnings
These alerts cover much of Middle Tennessee, especially areas west and north of Nashville, and are in effect Monday night through Tuesday morning.
Cold Lingers Through the Week
Temperature outlook graphics show highs struggling to reach freezing on several days this week. Even when daytime temperatures rise slightly, another surge of colder air is expected Friday into the weekend, renewing below-zero wind chills.
Officials warn this extended cold could be life-threatening for anyone without reliable heat or power.
Safety Officials Urge Immediate Precautions
Residents are urged to:
- Check on elderly neighbors, friends, and family
- Bring pets indoors
- Limit time outdoors, especially overnight and early morning
- Monitor local media and emergency management for warming shelter information
Bottom Line
This is not a one-night cold snap. Tennessee is facing multiple days of dangerous cold, with near-zero lows, brutal wind chills, and little recovery between events. Extra precautions are critical, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Stay with WaldronNews.com for continued updates on cold alerts, school or service disruptions, and when temperatures are expected to safely rise above freezing again.