Strong Storms with 40 MPH Winds Expected in Whitley, Knox, Bell, Clay

Residents in Whitley, Knox, Bell, and Clay counties should prepare for strong thunderstorms with wind gusts up to 40 mph, according to a Special Weather Statement issued by the National Weather Service (NWS) Jackson, KY.

The statement, effective until 11:30 PM EDT tonight, September 21, indicates that Doppler radar is tracking strong thunderstorms moving east at 20 mph. These storms are along a line extending from near Woollum to Fourmile to near Davisburg to 8 miles south of Wilkerson.

The NWS advises that gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and blow around unsecured objects. Torrential rainfall is also occurring with these storms, which may lead to localized flooding. If outdoors, consider seeking shelter inside a building. Do not drive your vehicle through flooded roadways.

Locations impacted include Barbourville, Pineville, Middlesboro, and Artemus. U.S. Highway 25 East in Bell County (mile markers 1-18) and Knox County (mile markers 1-12) are also affected.