East Tennessee Faces Closures, Delays Amid Wintry Weather

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. — Multiple sites across East Tennessee are closed or operating on delayed hours Sunday due to a wintry mix of weather causing icy road conditions. A 10Weather Impact Alert has been issued for Sunday, Jan. 5, and Monday, Jan. 6, as the region braces for a combination of light rain, heavier precipitation, and mountain winds.

Dollywood, a popular tourist attraction in Pigeon Forge, announced it will open at 1 p.m. today, with reduced hours until 9 p.m. due to the inclement weather. The Young-Williams Animal Center in Knoxville also adjusted its schedule, closing at 4 p.m. Sunday to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.

Local authorities have urged residents to exercise caution while traveling, as icy patches and reduced visibility could create hazardous driving conditions. The National Weather Service reported temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to low 50s across the region, with light rain expected to transition into heavier downpours by Sunday afternoon.

In addition to the closures, several schools and government offices in the area have announced delayed openings for Monday. Officials are monitoring the situation closely and will provide updates as the weather develops.