RUTHERFORD CO., TN (WGNS) – Yet another round of strong to severe thunderstorms is expected to roll through southern Middle Tennessee on Saturday afternoon, and Rutherford County is right in the potential impact zone.

The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Watch for the region, including Rutherford County, effective until 6 p.m. Saturday. Residents are urged to stay weather aware throughout the afternoon as conditions may change quickly.

The Storm Prediction Center has elevated the severe weather threat to a Level 3 out of 5 for areas south of Interstate 40—this includes Rutherford County and much of southern Middle Tennessee. Meanwhile, most of the rest of the state remains under a Level 2 threat, and areas of southern Kentucky are under a lower Level 1 risk.

The biggest concern with Saturday’s storms is the potential for damaging wind gusts over 60 mph, which could bring down trees, power lines, and pose a risk to outdoor structures. While the risk for large hail and tornadoes remains low, forecasters caution that any severe storm can still be dangerous.

Storms are expected to develop and intensify through the afternoon hours, so events and travel plans may be disrupted. Be sure to keep your mobile devices charged, and enable emergency alerts to receive real-time warnings.

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