Remnants of Hurricane Isaias bring high-wind risk to the Smokies and foothills this weekend

Hurricane Isaias made landfall near Pensacola, Florida, on October 9, 2026, and its remnants moved through Mississippi, Alabama and Tennessee over the weekend. WVLT Chief Meteorologist Spencer Denton said the highest risk for East Tennessee was mountain-wave high wind in the far eastern mountains and foothills, possibly over 60 mph, caused by the pressure difference between the Carolinas and the storm.

For the rest of East Tennessee, WVLT forecast winds of 15 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph by Saturday evening, with higher gusts on the Cumberland Plateau and a very low risk of a brief spin-up tornado. The station said heavy rain would come in bands and was not likely to be a major flood risk for most of the region.

What this means for homeowners

Mountain-wave winds can lift and crease shingles and loosen metal roof panels even without a thunderstorm. After strong wind, check from the ground for missing shingles, lifted ridge caps and debris, and photograph anything you find before cleanup. Wind damage is usually covered by homeowners insurance, subject to your deductible. See wind damage claims.