Heat, humidity and storm threats make early mornings the best bet for outdoor plans

Morning hours offer the safest window before afternoon heat and thunderstorms arrive

GATLINBURG, Tenn (SMOKIES.LIVE STORM CENTER) — If you’re planning to hike, bike, fish or explore the Great Smoky Mountains over the next couple of days, an early start could make all the difference.

The weather pattern from Monday through Wednesday will feature warm, humid afternoons with increasing chances for showers and thunderstorms. While not every community will see rain, storms that do develop could produce heavy downpours, frequent lightning and gusty winds. A broader threat of severe thunderstorms is expected across portions of the Ohio Valley, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast on Tuesday, with damaging winds the primary concern in that region. While East Tennessee is not in the core of that severe weather outlook, afternoon and evening thunderstorms remain possible.

Temperatures in Gatlinburg are expected to reach the upper 80s Monday and Tuesday, with heat and humidity making it feel even warmer during the afternoon.

The best time to enjoy outdoor activities:

• 6 a.m. to 10 a.m.: The coolest temperatures of the day make this the ideal time for hiking, biking, sightseeing and other outdoor adventures.
• Late morning: Heat and humidity begin building, so drink plenty of water and take frequent breaks if you’re outside.
• After noon: Scattered showers and thunderstorms become increasingly likely, especially after 2 p.m. Monday and after 11 a.m. Tuesday.
• Tuesday afternoon and evening: Be prepared to move indoors quickly if thunderstorms develop. Lightning can strike well away from the heaviest rain.
• Tuesday night into early Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms are expected to become more widespread, with periods of rain possible overnight.

Anyone spending time in the Smokies should keep an eye on the sky and monitor the latest forecasts before heading into the backcountry or higher elevations. Mountain weather can change quickly, and thunderstorms can develop with little warning during the heat of the day.

The combination of cooler temperatures, lower humidity and a reduced storm threat makes the early morning hours the best opportunity to safely enjoy the outdoors before summer weather takes over each afternoon.