Winter Storm Disrupts Knoxville Events And Schedules

Knoxville, Tennessee, is bracing for a weekend of wintry weather that has already upended plans across the city, from major sporting events to family outings. As the National Weather Service and local meteorologists issue urgent warnings, residents and organizations are scrambling to adjust their schedules and prepare for what could be a challenging few days.

On January 21, 2026, the National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for Knoxville and the greater East Tennessee region, signaling the arrival of potentially hazardous conditions. This watch was soon upgraded to an ice storm warning, effective from 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, through 7 p.m. on Sunday, January 25. According to the latest forecasts, Knoxville can expect about an inch of snow and up to a quarter-inch of ice, with precipitation beginning Saturday morning and transitioning to a wintry mix by the afternoon and evening (as reported by Knox News and WVLT).

The timing of the storm has shifted repeatedly in recent days, keeping residents and event organizers on their toes. Initially, forecasts suggested Knoxville might see up to six inches of snow or significant freezing rain, but as the storm track moved north, the expectation shifted to less snow and more ice. Meteorologist Charles Dalton of the National Weather Service explained, "The bulk of Knoxville's winter precipitation, be it snow, sleet or freezing rain, will happen on Saturday, Jan. 24." Sunday is now expected to bring rain rather than snow, with the possibility of more flurries and very cold temperatures on Monday.

These evolving forecasts have already forced several high-profile schedule changes. The University of Tennessee Athletics department announced on January 22 that the ITA Kickoff Weekend women's tennis matches, set to be played in Knoxville, would be rescheduled due to the inclement weather. Instead of the original plan, the No. 13 Pepperdine and Clemson teams will now face off on Friday, January 23, at 1 p.m. ET, with the Lady Vols set to play the winner on Saturday, January 24, at noon. The University of Washington, originally slated to compete, has withdrawn from the event altogether, a decision attributed directly to the storm's impact (University of Tennessee Athletics).

Meanwhile, Zoo Knoxville has taken preemptive action as well. Citing the upcoming winter weather, the zoo has rescheduled its popular Princess Day event to Sunday, February 1, 2026. The event, which invites families to meet their favorite ice princesses in the Wee Play Adventure Building, will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and is included with general admission. Zoo officials emphasized their commitment to guest safety and dynamic experiences, encouraging would-be visitors to check for updates before making the trip (Zoo Knoxville).

Local news outlet WVLT has been closely tracking the forecast, noting that conditions on Thursday night, January 22, were already mostly cloudy and cold, with temperatures hovering around freezing. Friday, January 23, is expected to bring highs only in the low 40s, with lows dropping into the low to mid-20s—setting the stage for the "wintry mess" anticipated on Saturday. Meteorologist Spencer Denton described the weekend as a "First Alert Weather Day," cautioning that "all hazards of winter weather are possible at the start." Precipitation is forecast to begin as sleet or snow showers early Saturday afternoon, then shift to a wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain as the day progresses.

Snow accumulation is expected to be modest in Knoxville itself—about an inch, according to the National Weather Service—but could reach up to two inches in areas near the Tennessee/Kentucky line and the northern Plateau north of Crossville, provided the wintry mix doesn't arrive too quickly. Sleet may also accumulate in some locations, adding to the travel hazards.

Sunday is likely to see a changeover to rain as temperatures rise above freezing, though some pockets of wintry mix may persist. The precipitation will gradually clear out late Sunday night. However, the aftermath of the storm could prove just as treacherous: highs will remain below freezing into early next week, with morning lows plunging into the single digits and teens on Monday and Tuesday, January 26-27. The risk of black ice or flash freezing will be high, making travel potentially dangerous even after the precipitation ends (WVLT).

For those unfamiliar with the terminology, a winter storm watch indicates that severe weather is possible and is typically issued at least 24 hours in advance. It may later be upgraded to a warning or advisory as the storm's details become clearer. A winter storm warning, like the one now in effect, means that a significant winter weather event is imminent or already occurring. Under such warnings, the National Weather Service recommends staying off the roads whenever possible.

Local authorities and organizations are urging residents to take precautions. The Red Cross and emergency services recommend stocking up on food, water, and warm clothing ahead of the storm in case of power outages. It's also wise to have a snow shovel, salt, and an emergency kit ready. For drivers, filling up the gas tank, keeping a blanket and warm clothes in the car, and being prepared for hazardous travel conditions are all prudent steps.

In East Tennessee, what counts as a "significant" snowstorm can vary, but meteorologist Charles Dalton considers six inches or more to be noteworthy. While this storm is not expected to reach that threshold in Knoxville, the combination of ice, sleet, and rapidly changing temperatures could make it memorable—and dangerous—for many.

As the city hunkers down for the weekend, the disruptions to daily life are already evident. Sports fans will have to wait to see the Lady Vols in action, families will reschedule their outings, and everyone will need to keep a close eye on the forecast. The unpredictability of winter weather in East Tennessee is nothing new, but the swift adjustments by local institutions show just how seriously the threat is being taken.

With the storm poised to arrive Saturday morning and bring a messy mix of precipitation through Sunday, Knoxville residents are reminded to stay informed, exercise caution, and check for updates before venturing out. Whether it’s the tennis courts, the zoo, or the city streets, winter’s grip on Knoxville this weekend will be hard to ignore.