Strong Thunderstorm Warning: Gusts up to 50 MPH, Half-Inch Hail Expected

A Special Weather Statement has been issued by the National Weather Service Morristown, warning residents in Claiborne, Hancock, and Lee counties to seek shelter indoors due to a strong thunderstorm.

As of 11:36 PM EDT on September 21, Doppler radar tracked a strong thunderstorm over Hutch, near Middlesboro, moving east at 20 mph. The primary hazards include wind gusts up to 50 mph and hail up to half an inch in size. These conditions are radar-indicated.

Impacts from this storm may include downed tree limbs, displaced unsecured objects, and minor hail damage to vegetation. Locations expected to be impacted include Sneedville, Tazewell, Harrogate, Howard Quarter, Cumberland Gap, Ewing, Evanston, Arthur, Powell River Preserve, and Rose Hill.

In addition to strong winds and hail, torrential rainfall is occurring with this storm, which may lead to localized flooding. Residents are advised not to drive vehicles through flooded roadways. This statement is effective immediately and expires at 12:15 AM UTC on September 22, 2026.