NASHVILLE, Tenn., Jan. 10, 2020 - Tennessee is expecting severe weather this weekend, beginning on Friday, according to the National Weather Service. A threat of damaging winds, tornadoes, hail and heavy rainfall are all expected to cause issues for the region from Jan. 10 through Jan. 11. The primary threat to Tennessee residents is damaging winds.

Flash Flooding could be an issue on Saturday, but as the storm develops the threat for forecasted rainfall totals has decreased in the state. While rain will end by Sunday, more rain is in the forecast beginning Tuesday of next week.

The American Red Cross of Tennessee reminds everyone to be prepared for the threat of severe weather by following these severe storm safety tips:

     -Put together an emergency preparedness kit

     -Review the Be Red Cross Ready - Preparing for Severe Storms

     -Download the Red Cross Emergency App for up-to-date weather alerts, preparedness and safety information

     -Listen to local news or NOAA Weather Radio for emergency updates. 

     -Watch for signs of a storm, like darkening skies, lightning flashes or

     -If a tornado warning is issued, take shelter in a substantial building, in an enclosed area not near windows or doorways.

     -Shutter windows and close outside doors securely. Keep away from windows.

     - Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds.

     -Avoid electrical equipment and telephones. Use battery-powered TVs and radios instead.

     -If you are driving during a heavy rain storm, try to safely exit the roadway and park. Stay in the vehicle and turn on the emergency flashers until the heavy rain ends. 

     -If you are outside and cannot reach a safe building, avoid high ground; water; tall, isolated trees; and metal objects such as fences or bleachers.

With the threat of flash flooding also a possibility as these storms roll through, follow these flood safety tips:

     -Stay away from floodwaters. If you are walking and encounter flooding, stop, turn around and go another way.

     - If you are driving, turn around and go another way. Do not attempt to drive through flooding.

     -Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to see flood dangers.

     -Keep children out of the water.

To learn more about storm safety, visit redcross.org/prepare.

For more information, visit www.redcross.org/Tennessee. Spanish language information is available at www.cruzrojaamericana.org.