Public Advisory: Winter Weather Emergency and Nashville City Service Updates
Public Safety Alert: Winter Weather State of Emergency Declared
The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County, in coordination with the State of Tennessee, has issued a series of critical public service announcements for Saturday, January 24, 2026. Governor Bill Lee has officially declared a State of Emergency for all counties, including Davidson, as a multi-phase winter storm system moves into Middle Tennessee. A Code Red Weather Alert is currently active, with the National Weather Service forecasting a complex mix of freezing rain, sleet, and significant snow accumulation. Residents should prepare for hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages as ice accumulation and subzero wind chills are expected to persist throughout the weekend.
Nashville Department of Transportation Emergency Operations
The Nashville Department of Transportation and Multimodal Infrastructure (NDOT) has initiated full emergency response protocols to combat the deteriorating conditions. A fleet of 45 snowplows and salt trucks has been deployed to maintain approximately 600 miles of primary routes. Initial efforts are focused on ensuring access to hospitals, emergency service hubs, and major thoroughfares. NDOT officials urge citizens to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely essential. Reducing civilian traffic allows crews to more effectively clear ice and prevents stranded vehicles from obstructing plow operations. Pretreatment of hills, bridges, and interchanges with brine has been completed, but the onset of freezing rain may necessitate repeated salt applications.
Public Health and Community Service Updates
- Extreme Cold Advisory: With temperatures projected to drop into the single digits, the Metro Public Health Department advises residents to limit time outdoors. If you must go outside, wear multiple layers of dry clothing. Information regarding the activation of local warming centers and emergency shelters for vulnerable populations can be found through official city resource directories or by calling 311.
- Transportation and Flights: Nashville International Airport (BNA) remains operational but warns of potential delays and cancellations. Travelers are advised to confirm flight status with their airlines before departing for the airport and to exercise extreme caution on terminal access roads.
- School and Program Cancellations: Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) has canceled all extracurricular activities, sporting events, and after-care programs scheduled for today. Parents should monitor official school communication channels for updates regarding Monday's schedule.
- Event Closures: The Tennessee Performing Arts Center (TPAC) has canceled all weekend performances of the touring production of Les Misérables due to safety concerns for patrons and staff.
Safety and Utility Reminders
Nashville Electric Service (NES) is on high alert for potential power disruptions caused by ice accumulation on trees and power lines. Residents are encouraged to charge mobile devices and keep emergency kits accessible. Please report any downed lines immediately and do not approach them. For non-emergency city service requests or to report road hazards, residents should use the hubNashville platform.