LIVE UPDATES: East Tennessee in a deep freeze as wind chill warnings persist

A wind chill advisory from the National Weather Service warns East Tennesseans that temperatures could feel like 15 below zero this morning. Conditions may be worse in the higher elevations.

The warning is in effect until noon. After that, high temperatures will approach freezing but not go above it.

“Use caution while traveling outside. Wear appropriate clothing, a hat and gloves,” weather service meteorologists said.

Another storm could move in later in the week, but the forecasts on that “wintry mix” and below-zero wind chills aren’t totally solid yet. Stay tuned.

Here’s what you need to know to start your day today as many nonessential functions have been slow to restart because of snow-covered roads and bitter cold temperatures.

TVA asks customers to save electricity

This morning’s freezing cold temperatures could lead to record demand on the Tennessee Valley Authority power grid. TVA is asking customers to do their part by being smart about their electricity use to avoid the need for blackouts.

Reducing the stress on the power grid will be especially useful between 7 to 11 a.m.

The federal utility expects a demand to top 35,000 megawatts as wind chills dip below zero degrees across parts of the agency’s service area, a spokesperson told Knox News. TVA’s power system is capable of producing close to 33,000 megawatts and the agency has purchase power agreements with other companies for thousands of megawatts.

Ways to pitch in:

• Adjust thermostat to between 65-68 degrees, or the lowest temperature that keeps you warm and safe.
• Limit use of nonessential appliances and lights and unplug unused electronics
• Unblock air vents
• Postpone use of hot water
• Wait to run the dishwasher or washer and dryer until warmer times of day
• Open blinds and curtains during the day on the sunny side of the house and close them at night
• Keep warm air circulating with ceiling fans
• Wear more layers and blankets inside to keep warm

Today’s cancelations and closures

• Knox County Libraries will be closed today.
• The Knox County Commission Audit Committee’s meeting scheduled for today has been canceled. It will be rescheduled in February.
• The Knox County Sheriff Employees’ Merit System Board of Directors meeting scheduled for today has been cancelled. It will be rescheduled.

• Knoxville city offices and recreation centers will be closed today. City services such as KPD, KFD, public service crews and fleet service technicians will continue to perform their duties.
• The Knoxville Museum of Art will remain closed.
• The Beck Cultural Exchange Center will be closed and will operate on a limited basis the rest of the week.

•  The Diocese of Knoxville Chancery will be closed.

• The U.S. citizenship naturalization ceremony that had been scheduled for today is canceled. The next Knoxville ceremony will be held at 11 a.m. April 25.
• KAT buses have been suspended due to continued dangerous road conditions. KAT does not expect to return to any level of service before this afternoon. Updates and route information will be posted at katbus.com.

East Tennessee schools are closed today

Freezing cold and snow translated into closed schools today, and students, parents and teachers are anxiously awaiting news on whether their break will be extended another day – or two. Check back at knoxnews.com for news as soon as we hear it.

Stay safe in your car and in your home

There are a few steps to take ‒ and a few myths to avoid ‒ to keep your car running in the bitter cold.

You don’t want frozen pipes or to feel cold in your own house. Take these steps now to be cozy and safe.

Power outages can be dangerous. Here’s how to stay safe and avoid fires.