Winter is tightening its grip on Nashville, and the city is about to face some of the coldest temperatures of the season. After a quiet start to the week, a major snowstorm is set to arrive Wednesday, bringing icy roads, dangerous wind chills, and bitter cold that could make outdoor conditions life-threatening.
If you thought this winter had been mild so far, think again. The National Weather Service has issued winter weather advisories, warning of heavy snowfall and dangerously low temperatures that could cause travel disruptions, power outages, and extreme cold risks for those unprepared.
The Week Ahead: A Breakdown of Nashville’s Frigid Forecast
Monday, February 17
A calm but chilly start to the week with plenty of sunshine and a high of 38°F (4°C). Temperatures will drop to 23°F (-5°C) overnight, setting the stage for the cold blast ahead.
Tuesday, February 18
A mix of sun and clouds with daytime highs hovering around 39°F (4°C). Nighttime lows will dip to 21°F (-6°C), marking the start of a deep freeze.
Wednesday, February 19 – The Storm Arrives
A major winter storm moves in Wednesday morning, bringing 1-2 inches of snow by early afternoon. High temperatures will only reach 25°F (-4°C), and as the snow tapers off, temperatures will plummet overnight to a brutal 10°F (-12°C).
Thursday, February 20 – Dangerously Cold Conditions
This will be one of the coldest days of the season. Expect morning clouds followed by sunshine, but the temperatures will remain bone-chilling, peaking at just 24°F (-4°C). The overnight low? A staggering 6°F (-15°C).
Friday, February 21 & Saturday, February 22
The storm may be gone, but the cold isn’t. Highs will struggle to reach 25°F (-4°C) on Friday, with nighttime lows dropping into the teens. By Saturday, temperatures will slightly rebound to 37°F (3°C), but it will still feel freezing outside.
Why This Storm and Cold Snap Are a Big Deal
Icy and Snow-Covered Roads – Snowfall during the morning rush hour on Wednesday will make travel dangerous. Untreated roads will turn slick fast, increasing the risk of accidents and long delays.
Arctic Wind Chills – With strong winds accompanying the cold front, temperatures will feel even lower than what the thermometer shows. If you step outside unprotected, frostbite can occur in under 30 minutes.
Possible Power Outages – Heavy snow and ice could weigh down tree branches and power lines, leading to scattered blackouts in parts of the city. Be prepared with backup heat sources.
Prolonged Cold Spell – This isn’t just a quick cold front—Nashville will be stuck in deep winter conditions for several days. Pipes could freeze, heating costs will skyrocket, and staying outside for too long will be dangerous.
How to Stay Safe and Prepare for the Extreme Cold
Stock Up on Essentials – Grocery stores may get crowded before the storm, so grab food, bottled water, batteries, and medications in advance.
Limit Travel on Wednesday & Thursday – Snow and ice will make roads treacherous. If you must drive, keep an emergency kit in your car.
Bundle Up & Stay Indoors – Layer thermal clothing, gloves, scarves, and hats to protect yourself from frostbite. Stay inside as much as possible.
Check on Elderly and Vulnerable Neighbors – Extreme cold can be deadly for seniors, young children, and those with medical conditions.
Prepare for Power Outages – Have blankets, flashlights, and a backup heating source ready in case of electrical failures.
Final Thoughts: Nashville’s Coldest and Snowiest Week of the Season?
This is shaping up to be one of the most intense winter weeks Nashville has seen in years. The combination of accumulating snow, hazardous roads, and bitter cold will make life difficult, especially midweek.
