Rutherford County, TN - It was a stormy night that residents won’t soon forget. While the fierce weather system brought thunderous roars, dazzling lightning, and high winds, the anticipated devastation proved less severe than feared. Families across Rutherford County reported that the deafening rumbles shook their homes, leaving children frightened and parents bracing for impact.

In Smyrna, a fallen tree reportedly damaged a home, though these reports remain unconfirmed, according to Rutherford County Public Information Officer Lisa Kaye. Fortunately, no widespread destruction has been reported.

Public Storm Shelters

Preparedness paid off as the county's public storm shelters opened early Saturday morning to accommodate potential evacuees. These shelters, located at public health and safety buildings in Lascassas, Readyville, Rockvale, and Walter Hill, were ready to provide refuge but ultimately went unused. Kaye stated that the facilities, built to FEMA standards and accommodating up to 200 standing occupants, will reopen at 3:00 PM Saturday and remain operational as needed while severe weather threats persist.

The Ides of March and Weather Radio Woes

As an interesting aside, Saturday coincides with the "Ides of March," a day infamous in history due to Julius Caesar's assassination in 44 BCE. While this date carries a foreboding reputation, it appears unrelated to technical issues plaguing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) Weather Radio transmitter in Beechgrove. The transmitter, which serves much of Rutherford County, is off the air, leaving many residents without critical weather updates during the storm.

WGNS and RU CO WX keeping You Informed

For the latest updates and storm-related information, residents are encouraged to tune into WGNS broadcast channels (FM 101.9 and AM 1450 in Murfreesboro; FM 100.5 in Smyrna) or visit the station's website.

Bryan Barrett is "live" on WGNS with RU CO Weather as new storms continue to pop-up with high winds and rain in Walter Hill, Readyville, and north of Woodbury. 

Stay safe and informed as the region continues to weather the stormy season!