Rutherford County drivers are facing hazardous road conditions this morning as icy roads create dangerous situations across the area. Authorities are urging extreme caution and recommending that motorists avoid certain roads if possible.
In northeast Rutherford County, drivers are advised to steer clear of Couchville Pike and Barnett Road. Dispatchers received a report about 12 vehicles stuck on a hill with no way to turn around. Sheriff’s deputies and Rutherford County Highway Department crews are currently responding to assist the stranded motorists.
Deputy Scott Parker has warned that John Bragg Highway is particularly slick, advising drivers to reduce their speed to prevent skidding and potential accidents.
Deputies also responded to the 3800-4000 block of Betty Ford Road near Sanford Drive, where a head-on collision resulted in a road closure. Fortunately, only minor injuries were reported. Additionally, crashes have been reported near Walter Hill Elementary School and on Barfield Crescent Road.
Authorities are asking drivers to slow down and exercise extra caution while traveling this morning. The community appreciates the efforts of Deputy Scott Parker for providing updates and pictures of the road conditions.
Overnight snowfall has created hazardous driving conditions across Tennessee, affecting interstates from border to border. WGNS checked with the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and avoid unnecessary travel.
Middle Tennessee
In Middle Tennessee, areas north of Interstate 40 are under a winter storm warning, with snow accumulations ranging from 2 to 6 inches. Roads, especially bridges and overpasses, are slick and hazardous, impacting the Wednesday morning commute. The Nashville Department of Transportation has pre-treated primary, secondary, and post-secondary routes with brine and has 40 snowplow trucks ready to ensure safe travel for first responders and public transit1.
East Tennessee
East Tennessee is also experiencing icy road conditions, with patches of ice and snow reported on various roads in Campbell, Scott, and Morgan Counties. The Knoxville Police Department has advised residents to use caution and limit travel if possible, as some roads have been pre-treated but remain dangerous2.
Road Closures and Conditions
Several roads across the state have been affected by the snowfall:
- Interstate 24: Ponding reported between mile markers 18 and 25 in Robertson County.
- Interstate 40: Snow and ice patches reported, with hazardous conditions expected to impact travel.
- Interstate 75: Snow and ice patches reported in East Tennessee.
Safety Tips
Drivers are reminded to:
- Avoid driving in high water and flooded areas.
- Slow down and use caution on icy and snow-covered roads.
- Follow the "Turn Around, Don’t Drown" warnings at flooded roadways.
For real-time traffic and road conditions, visit the Tennessee 511 website or dial 511 from a cellular or landline phone. Stay tuned to WGNS and the Good Neighbor news website for updates.