Winter Storm Warning Closes Schools Across Tennessee and Kentucky

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — A Winter Storm Warning has been issued for Tennessee, prompting widespread school closures across East Tennessee and Kentucky on Friday, Jan. 10. The National Weather Service predicts 3 to 6 inches of snow, with higher accumulations in some areas, from 10 a.m. Friday to 7 a.m. Saturday.

Schools and organizations in the region announced closures as frigid temperatures and hazardous conditions persist. Major public school districts, including Knox County Schools and Jefferson County Schools, are among those shuttering for the day. The closures aim to ensure the safety of students and staff as road conditions are expected to deteriorate.

“We are closely monitoring the weather and will continue to provide updates as conditions change,” said a spokesperson for the National Weather Service. The agency urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel and prepare for potential power outages.

Local authorities have also activated emergency response plans, including deploying snowplows and salt trucks to maintain roadways. “Our teams are working around the clock to keep roads as safe as possible,” said a representative from the Tennessee Department of Transportation.

Residents are advised to stock up on essentials, including food, water, and medications, as the storm could disrupt daily routines. The storm follows a week of unusually cold weather, with temperatures dropping well below freezing across the region.

This story will be updated as additional school districts and organizations announce closures or delays.