Update: 10 a.m.
Sullivan County Schools made the call around 9:30 a.m. to dismiss students at 11:30 a.m., due to the impending snow storm that is expected to hit our region this afternoon.
"The highway department, sheriff’s department and EMA have been monitoring the situation and (the National Weather Service) is saying a storm is coming very swiftly with heavy snow around 2 p.m.," said Director of Schools Dr. Jubal Yennie. "I’m making the decision that we’re going with that information and if that’s wrong, then I’m wrong. I’d rather be wrong that way than the other way."
Marybeth McClain, communications editor at Kingsport City Schools, said as of right now, city schools are not planning to release early, but schools officials are keeping an eye on the weather.
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Northerly winds are expected to pull colder air into the region this afternoon, bringing the possibility of significant snow accumulations in some areas.
On Thursday morning the National Weather Service in Morristown, Tenn., issued a winter weather advisory for snow. It's in effect from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m., with forecasters saying rain will transition to snow this afternoon. Snow is expected to initially be heavy then taper off through the evening.
Between one and three inches is expected across most the region with between four and eight inches possible in the mountains of both Northeast Tennessee and Southwest Virginia.
The NWS warns that hazardous driving conditions are possible this afternoon and tonight, while overnight temperatures in the 20s will freeze any water on roadways.
As of Thursday morning the forecast for Friday was sunny with a high of 36, remaining clear into the night with a low around 23. Saturday is expected to be sunny with a high near 49.
For the latest forecasts and weather statements, visit the National weather Service.
Appalachian Power announced they're making preparations for possible outages — and encourage the public to do likewise. In the event that heavy snows brings down power lines or poles, Appalachian Power says contract lien workers, damage assessors and tree crews are ready to respond.