Gov. Bill Lee issued a state of emergency for all 95 Tennessee counties as forecasters warned of a potentially major winter storm expected to impact the state this weekend.

Lee encouraged Tennesseans to prepare for the possibility of snow, ice, freezing rain and prolonged freezing temperatures. Executive Order 110 declares the emergency statewide.

According to the National Weather Service, a significant winter storm could move into Tennessee as early as Friday evening, with increasing confidence in accumulating snow and freezing rain that could cause moderate to major impacts. A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for all counties from Friday evening, Jan. 23, through Sunday, Jan. 25. Dangerously cold temperatures are expected to persist until midweek.

The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency said it is working with local, regional and state partners to support readiness efforts and respond to any resource requests. TEMA is urging residents to monitor its January 2026 Winter Weather webpage, which will be updated with the latest forecasts, expected impacts and safety guidance.

The Tennessee Department of Transportation said crews are pretreating roadways and have replenished salt supplies in all 95 counties. During winter weather, TDOT prioritizes clearing interstates and heavily traveled state routes, focusing on areas prone to freezing, such as hills, curves, ramps, bridges and interchanges. Officials warned that during prolonged storms, crews may need to clear roads multiple times.

TDOT urged motorists to use caution, avoid travel unless necessary and give road crews and first responders space to work safely.

The Tennessee Highway Patrol said troopers and dispatchers will operate around the clock during the storm, responding to stranded motorists, assisting local partners and removing abandoned vehicles from interstates.

The Tennessee National Guard said it is preparing vehicles and resources to support emergency response, including transporting patients to hospitals and assisting stranded motorists. Guard members are also preparing emergency shelters and debris-clearing equipment and staging resources across the state.