Nashville is about to face a serious soaking, and it’s not just a passing shower. A major rainstorm is on its way, expected to dump several inches of rain starting Wednesday, February 12. With rain falling fast and heavy, officials are warning of potential flash flooding, hazardous roads, and waterlogged neighborhoods. If you’re planning to be out and about, you’ll want to rethink those plans or at least have an umbrella and some caution on hand.
When and How Much Rain Will Hit?
The rain is set to start Wednesday morning and will quickly ramp up, with forecasts predicting up to 8 inches of rain on Wednesday alone. It won’t stop there—an additional 3 to 4 inches is expected on Thursday, bringing the total to more than double what Nashville typically gets in all of February.
This storm is no joke. In just two days, it could bring the kind of rainfall that usually takes an entire month to accumulate. That’s why local officials are on high alert, and you should be too.
Why This Storm Is a Big Deal
Let’s be clear: This isn’t your average rainy day. The problem isn’t just the volume of rain, but how quickly it’s expected to fall. When rain comes down faster than the ground and storm drains can handle it, water starts to pool in places it doesn’t belong—on streets, in parking lots, and around homes. That’s when flash floods can happen, turning a quiet street into a river within minutes.
The biggest danger is for drivers. Flooded roads can be hard to spot until it’s too late. Just a few inches of water can stall your car, and a foot of fast-moving water can carry a vehicle away. Officials are urging everyone to avoid driving through standing water, no matter how shallow it might seem.
What About the Temperature?
Thankfully, this storm won’t bring freezing rain or snow, but it will be cool and damp. Daytime temperatures will hover around 50°F (10°C), with nighttime lows near 32°F (0°C). It won’t be cold enough to freeze, but it’s chilly enough to make wet clothes and shoes uncomfortable. So, dress in layers and make sure you’ve got waterproof gear if you need to be outside.
How Does This Compare to Normal February Weather in Nashville?
Nashville typically gets about 4 inches of rain during February, spread out over several days. But this storm is packing twice that amount into just two days. That’s why it’s raising eyebrows among weather experts and city officials—they know the city’s drainage systems could get overwhelmed.
For context, Nashville’s 2010 flood disaster is still fresh in many residents’ minds. While this storm isn’t expected to reach that level of devastation, it’s a reminder that heavy rain can escalate quickly if precautions aren’t taken.
How to Prepare and Stay Safe
To avoid getting stuck or caught off guard, here are a few tips to keep yourself and your property safe:
- Avoid flooded roads: If you see standing water, don’t risk it. Even if it looks shallow, it could be deeper than you think.
- Keep an eye on updates: Stay tuned to local news, weather alerts, and social media for any warnings or road closures.
- Clear drains and gutters: If you have time, clear any leaves or debris from drains around your home to help prevent water from backing up.
- Have an emergency kit ready: Stock up on flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food just in case.
- Move valuables to higher ground: If you live in a flood-prone area, consider moving important items to upper floors or higher shelves.
What to Expect After the Storm
The heaviest rain is expected to end by Thursday night, but that doesn’t mean the danger will be over. Water levels in rivers and streams could continue to rise for a day or two as all that rain drains into them. Some roads and low-lying areas may stay flooded into the weekend.
On Friday, the weather will start to calm down, but cooler temperatures could create slick spots on roads if any leftover water freezes overnight. Highs will be in the upper 40s°F, with lows dipping close to freezing.
A Quick Look at the Forecast:
- Tuesday, Feb. 11: Cloudy and cool, high of 46°F (8°C), low of 38°F (3°C).
- Wednesday, Feb. 12: Heavy rain all day, with flooding likely. High of 50°F (10°C), low of 41°F (5°C).
- Thursday, Feb. 13: Continued rain and flooding risks. High of 50°F (10°C), low of 35°F (2°C).
- Friday, Feb. 14: Cloudy with lingering showers and cooler conditions. High of 47°F (8°C), low of 32°F (0°C).
Final Thoughts: Don’t Take This Storm Lightly
Flooding isn’t just a possibility—it’s a real risk with this storm. Roads can flood fast, and it only takes a few inches of water to create life-threatening situations. If you don’t have to be on the road during the worst of the storm, stay home. If you do have to go out, give yourself extra time and be cautious around standing water.
Check in on neighbors who might need help, and make sure you’re stocked up on supplies in case conditions worsen. The good news is that the rain will pass, but until it does, stay safe and stay prepared.
