Severe Storms Threaten Clarksville with Flooding and Tornado Risks

CLARKSVILLE, TN – A series of severe storms are poised to wreak havoc across Montgomery County, prompting a Flash Flood Warning effective through 6 a.m. Thursday. Doppler radar has already indicated substantial rainfall, with between 0.5 and 1.5 inches recorded, and additional rainfall of 1 to 2 inches is expected, leading to ongoing or imminent flash flooding.

As of late Wednesday evening, the National Weather Service (NWS) has extended a Tornado Watch for Montgomery County until 6 a.m. Thursday, indicating favorable conditions for tornado development. Severe thunderstorms were detected along a line extending from Oak Grove to southeastern Erin, moving at speeds of 50 mph and producing wind gusts up to 60 mph, as well as quarter-sized hail.

“Prepare for potentially dangerous weather conditions tonight,” urged NWS officials. “We anticipate the greatest threats from severe storms to occur between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. Areas should prepare for strong winds and flash flooding.”

In a preemptive move against the severe storms, Tennessee Governor Bill Lee declared a State of Emergency. He has also requested an Emergency Declaration for the state, positioning local resources to respond effectively to the anticipated consequences of the storms.

Weather warnings began earlier in the evening, with a Severe Thunderstorm Warning issued for all of Montgomery County until 12:30 a.m. The storms have already caused various weather advisories to roll out, including multiple warnings for hail, damaging winds, and localized flooding across the region.

At approximately 8:05 p.m., substantial cloud formations were reported, heightened by loud thunder and frequent lightning displays observed throughout downtown Clarksville. Local residents were advised to stay indoors and seek shelter in interior rooms on the lowest floors of their homes to avoid potential injuries from high winds or flying debris.

Earlier forecasts indicated had the potential of up to 10 inches of rain across the region by Sunday, raising significant concerns regarding flooding. Residents in low-lying areas and those near rivers and creeks are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for possible evacuation.

“This is a true weather emergency,” warned a meteorologist from the NWS. “People should not underestimate the potential for flooding, which can occur very quickly, especially in areas that have seen little rain previously.”

The NWS has also noted that conditions might lead to “generational flooding,” labeling it a rare event that could have a long-lasting impact on the affected communities. Emergency preparedness is strongly urged during this precarious weather phase.

This story will continue to be updated as more information becomes available across the Midstate.