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Update May 10, 2024

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For the Love of Tennessee, Travel Safe

Tennessee’s given us a lot to love. We look forward to welcoming you with our famous, warm hospitality. There are currently no travel restrictions in Tennessee; however, we encourage everyone to follow health and safety practices. Some areas of the state have implemented additional safety precautions. For regional guidance, visit the local tourism offices listed at the bottom of this page.

Guidance for residents and visitors is available at the CDC Guidance for Travelers .

Additional COVID-19 Information

Find important travel updates, including attraction and restaurant reopenings, from Tennessee cities and counties below.

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Traveling from Tennessee? Here's where you'll have to quarantine

Tennesseans traveling outside state lines might want to add some extra days to their itineraries for quarantining.

Multiple states have issued advisories for people who have spent time in Tennessee, where COVID-19 cases continue to rise. 

The most notable examples are New York, Connecticut and New Jersey, which all require an immediate 14-day quarantine for people traveling from Tennessee.

Each of these states is using the same guidelines to determine which travelers must quarantine. Anyone arriving from a state with a 10% or higher positive test rate or with more than 10 per 100,000 residents over a seven-day rolling average must quarantine for two weeks. 

As of July 14, travelers from these states would be subject to quarantine under the guidelines:

• Mississippi
• North Carolina
• South Carolina

Enforcing the travel advisory 

New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced this week that enforcement teams are stationed at New York airports to make sure travelers are following quarantine restrictions. 

The New York State Department of Health has mandatory travel forms, which airlines are giving to passengers boarding flights to New York. 

These forms also are available online and are being checked by enforcement teams as passengers get off planes in New York. 

Anyone who leaves a New York airport without filling out the form can receive a $2,000 fine and be ordered to complete a mandatory quarantine. 

This form must also be filled out by anyone coming to New York by any other form of transportation, including train or car. 

"New York's success in fighting the COVID-19 virus is under two threats: lack of compliance and the virus coming to New York from other states with increasing infection rates," Cuomo said, according to a news release. 

Exemptions to advisories 

New York has exemptions for essential workers, while Connecticut is exempting anyone working in critical infrastructure .

New Jersey's exemptions include travel for critical infrastructure workers and business.

"This, for example, would include truckers driving from an impacted state to New Jersey, and any state, local and federal officials and employees traveling in their official capacities on government business," according to the state travel advisory. 

Travelers who come from high-risk states but only have a layover in New Jersey or Connecticut do not have to quarantine. 

Major cities requiring quarantine  

Chicago has in place a  14-day quarantine requirement for travelers coming from Tennessee, although Illinois does not have statewide restrictions. 

Tennessee is among 15 states included on the city's mandatory quarantine list, which is updated weekly.

Washington, D.C., has added restrictions for Tennessee travels are well. Those who enter the district for nonessential travel must self-quarantine for 14 days. 

Oklahoma and Iowa will be included in the city's travel advisory starting Friday, along with these states already on the list: 

• California 

Chicago's guidelines are less strict than those of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. The city requires people quarantine if they are coming from states with a rate higher than 15 new cases per 100,000 residents over a seven-day rolling average. 

Travelers are not required to quarantine if they are changing flights at a Chicago airport or are immediately traveling outside the city. 

There are some exceptions for people traveling to Chicago for work. A full list of requirements and exemptions can be found at chicago.gov. 

A recommendation from Pennsylvania 

Pennsylvania recommends residents stay home for 14 days after traveling to Tennessee but is not requiring it. The same goes for visitors coming from Tennessee. 

The recommended quarantine currently applies to travelers coming from these states:

No restrictions from Tennessee 

Though it's listed in other states' travel advisories, Tennessee does not have any travel restrictions of its own. 

State and local leaders in Tennessee have pushed to reopen Tennessee safely, but cases continue to rise. 

The state reported 1,514 new COVID-19 cases Tuesday, bringing the statewide total to 66,788. 

Nearly 28,000 of those cases are active. 

Those figures came one day after Tennessee again broke its record for the highest single-day increase of COVID-19 cases.

Safe travel in the United States

It's simple: "Travel increases your chances of getting and spreading COVID-19," according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 

"Most viruses and other germs do not spread easily on flights because of how air circulates and is filtered on airplanes," according to the CDC. "However, social distancing is difficult on crowded flights, and you may have to sit near others (within 6 feet), sometimes for hours."

Plus, air travel requires standing in lines where germs can spread on surfaces and where social distancing can be difficult. 

Even traveling by car can come with risks. Making stops for food and gas along the way can put you in contact with other people and contaminated surfaces, according to the CDC. 

People should consider where they are visiting and who they are visiting, especially if that includes someone who might be at-risk for COVID-19. 

If you must travel, the CDC recommends you wash your hands frequently, keep distance from other people, avoid touching your face and wear a cloth face covering in public. 

Drive-thru food and curbside pickup is recommended while traveling, and everyone should cover their coughs and sneezes. 

As of Tuesday, the CDC said  there have been at least 3,355,457 cases reported in the United States, with 135,235 deaths. 

VISIT RESPONSIBLY

A message from the department of tourism.

The safety of our visitors, employees and residents remains a priority in Pigeon Forge, and responsible travel remains important. While the Centers for Disease Control recommends delaying travel until you are fully vaccinated, everyone is strongly encouraged to adhere to safety precautions outlined here by the CDC.

All travelers, regardless of vaccination status, should take these everyday steps to prevent getting or spreading COVID-19 during their trip:

• Wear a mask over your nose and mouth when in public.
• Avoid crowds and stay at least 6 feet/2 meters (about two arm lengths) from anyone who is not traveling with you.
• Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol).

While masks are not required in our city, please know that some businesses may require one be worn by their patrons. We ask that you please respect any mask guidelines at individual businesses for your personal safety and of those around you. In addition, masks are required on all Pigeon Forge Mass Transit trolleys as well as in Great Smoky Mountains National Park, per federal guidelines.

Covid-19 is highly contagious and is known to spread mainly from person-to-person contact. By visiting the city of Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, you voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to Covid-19.

LeConte Center Attendees

The LeConte Center has protocols to accommodate visitors at this time. Please note that mask requirements and some safety protocols are the discretion of event organizers. You will need to check their event pages for more information.

Prior to your visit, please familiarize yourself with these facility guidelines available here .

Mask Guidelines - Frequently Asked Questions

Are face coverings mandatory in pigeon forge.

Face coverings are not required in Sevier County with the exception of Great Smoky Mountains National Park and Pigeon Forge Mass Transit trolley, per federal guidelines. For the safety of our visitors, employees and residents, Pigeon Forge encourages visitors to comply with the safety recommendations provided by the Centers for Disease Control listed here . Additionally, please note that individual businesses can require the use of a face covering by all patrons.

Where do I have to wear a mask?

Federal guidelines currently require that face coverings be worn in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and on all Pigeon Forge Mass Transit trolleys.

Can a business make me wear a mask?

Yes, private business owners can require masks at individual establishments. Businesses should have signs posted at the entrance indicating that all patrons must wear a mask.

Do kids have to wear face coverings?

Where required, a child 12 years of age or younger are not required to wear a face covering.

Will a face covering actually protect me from Covid-19?

Face coverings have been proven to significantly slow the spread of person-to-person transmission of the Covid-19 virus. The Centers for Disease Control strongly recommends everyone wear face coverings when in public for this reason. Learn more here .

Is proof of a vaccine required by any business in Pigeon Forge?

No business in Pigeon Forge requires a vaccine credential.

Pigeon Forge Mass Transit Trolley Update

All Pigeon Forge Mass Transit routes are operating from 8 a.m. to midnight. at this time. Until further notice, all trolley passengers must wear a mask, per federal guidelines. Please know that parking at Patriot Park is limited due to ongoing construction. Free parking is available in both city parking lots (the River Lot between The Island and the LeConte Center and the Mountain Lot near The Ripken Experience on Jake Thomas Road). Free shuttle service is offered from the River lot. Those who park in the Mountain lot can use the pedestrian bridge to access the nearest trolley stop on Jake Thomas Road for transport to the Pigeon Forge Mass Transit hub at Patriot park.

Please note the Dollywood Splash Country route is currently not running.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Masks are required in all National Park Service buildings and on all forms of enclosed public transportation, regardless of location or vaccination status. Additional details are available at  www.nps.gov/coronavirus .

Before visiting, check the  park website  to determine its operating status and  recreate responsibly .

Visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are required to wear masks when in visitor centers, cabins, churches, restrooms, and administrative buildings. Please also note:

• Masks are also required at busy outdoor places when physical distancing cannot be maintained. This simply requires that hikers temporarily use a mask while passing others along a trail or when they are outside and within six feet of others who are not associated with their group.
• With 384 miles of roadways and more than 800 miles of trails, the park has ample options for visitors to spread out and enjoy recreational opportunities safely and responsibly.
• Visitors will seldom need to wear a mask outdoors for more than a moment – just long enough to pass someone along a trail. Of course, if they choose to go to a crowded outdoor overlook or a busy trail, they need to be prepared to wear their masks more consistently.
• Park Rangers will continue to exercise discretion for appropriate actions in enforcing this park regulation, just as they do with other park regulations.
• If a person is contacted, park rangers have the legal authority and discretion to make an educational contact or to issue a verbal warning, written warning, or a citation with fines, as appropriate for the situation.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park continues to increase recreational access and services across the park in alignment with guidance provided by the states of Tennessee and North Carolina, White House, Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and public health authorities. The health and safety of its visitors, employees, volunteers, and partners continues to be paramount.

Currently, the following areas of the Park are accessible to visitors:

Visitor Centers:

• Cable Mill in Cades Cove
• Clingmans Dome
• Mingus Mill near Oconaluftee
• Oconaluftee Visitor Center
• Sugarlands Visitor Center

Campgrounds:

Picnic Areas:

• Chimney Tops
• Collins Creek and Pavilion
• Cosby and Pavilion
• Deep Creek and Pavilion
• Greeenbrier ( Pavilion remans closed due to road damage .)
• Metcalf Bottoms and Pavilion
• Twin Creeks Pavilion

The following roads remain closed for motorists, but are open for pedestrians and cyclists. Please park responsibly in public areas when accessing these locations:

• Porters Creek
• Little Greenbrier Road remains closed for motorists, but is open for pedestrians and cyclists. Please park responsibly in public areas when accessing this location.

For updates regarding other current conditions please click HERE .

Veterans Homecoming Parade, Saturday, Aug. 7, 2021

For a list of upcoming events at The LeConte Center, please check here

Additional Resources

As the COVID-19 (coronavirus) situation continues to unfold, it is important to understand the facts and rely on credible sources for news and information. For more information about COVID-19, please visit these sites:

• Centers for Disease Control’s Coronavirus
• Tennessee Dept. of Health Coronavirus
• World Health Organization
• National Institutes of Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. It is recommended that everyone take the following precautions:

• Delay travel until fully vaccinated;
• Wear a mask when physical distancing is not possible, especially in indoor public spaces.
• Stay home when sick and avoid close contact with people who are sick;
• Cover coughs or sneezes with tissues and discard tissues in the trash;
• Frequently wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds;
• Clean frequently-touched surfaces with a disinfectant;
• Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.

What to know when traveling to Nashville

Where to stay in nashville, where to eat in nashville, what to do in nashville, advisories for visiting nashville, your ultimate guide to visiting nashville.

• Nashville is a lively city full of art, amazing food, and music shows on every corner.  
• To help you plan a trip to Music City, Insider has created a comprehensive travel guide.
• Visit Insider's hub for travel guides, tips, and recommendations .

Nashville, Tennessee: home of twangy country music and raucous honky-tonks, finger-licking-tasty fried chicken and buttermilk biscuits , historic buildings and idyllic college campuses.

The Southern city has given us some of the greatest entertainers — Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Taylor Swift, and Billy Ray Cyrus, to name a few — and has continued to serve as a north star for modern-day musicians trying to make it big. In the aptly nicknamed Music City, you can't go far without running into live music or a tribute to a dazzling luminary.

To help spread your wings, and perhaps introduce you to a few new favorites, we're showcasing some of the best places to eat, stay, and explore while visiting Nashville.

Ready to start your adventure in Nashville? Get the ball rolling with a simple booking, whether it's air travel or ground transportation. Keep reading for the best ways to arrive at Music City. 

Nashville International Airport (BNA)

If you're more than a few hours' drive from Nashville, you'll want to fly in. On the southeastern side of town, Nashville International Airport (BNA) is the city's primary airport. Because it's a larger hub, you can fly nonstop from many cities across the US. In fact, flights are available to 75 nonstop locations, including Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York, and Phoenix. In the worst-case scenario, you'll have only one or two layovers when flying domestically.

Nashville doesn't have an Amtrak station, so taking a train into town isn't convenient, but it's doable. The closest cities on the Amtrak route include Memphis, Tennessee, and Cincinnati. You can take Amtrak to either of these cities and drive the rest of the way. Memphis is a three-hour drive, while Cincinnati will take about four hours.

Of course, you can always drive into town. As the city is central in the US, 40% of the country's population is no more than 600 miles from Nashville. And three major interstates (I-65, I-40, and I-24) intersect in Nashville, which makes driving a viable option if you're not too far and are down for a road trip. As an alternative, you can take a bus into Nashville with Amtrak , Greyhound , or Megabus .

Once you arrive in Nashville, you have a few options for getting around town:

Ride-hailing services

Ubers and Lyfts are readily available in the city.

Public transportation

The city's WeGo Public Transit system (which connects the airport to town) makes getting around Nashville easy. There are also taxis, but unless you're downtown, they often need to be scheduled, instead of being flagged down.

Rental cars

Unless you plan to hunker down in one part of town, you'll probably want to have your own car. A rental car is an excellent option if you want to move around freely without relying on ride-hailing or public transit.

Nashville is defined by its numerous neighborhoods. Each has its own flavor, so no matter where you stay, we recommend exploring as much as you can. Here are some recommended accommodation options:

The Gallatin Hotel

Bright and cheery is the modus operandi at the Gallatin Hotel : The conciergeless boutique hotel in East Nashville donates the majority of its profits to those in need. It's a sister hotel to The Russell , which is also mission-driven.

Virgin Hotels Nashville 

Yep, the conglomerate known for its communication services has a hotel. Minutes from downtown, the vibrant and trendy Virgin Hotels Nashville has sleek modern decor, a hoppin' rooftop pool, and on-site dining and drinking.

Grand Hyatt Nashville 

A stay at the Grand Hyatt Nashville puts you right on Broadway, a central hub within walking distance to Lower Broadway, The Gulch, Midtown, and Music Row. It's a sleek, elevated hotel featuring a rooftop bar, spa, and seven food and beverage experiences.

Graduate 

Stepping into the Graduate feels like walking into a whimsical wonderland. It's decorated with vibrant tapestries and wallpapers, dripping chandeliers, and pop art. The Midtown hotel is also home to White Limozeen , the ultrapink Parton-inspired rooftop bar and pool, as well as Poindexter Coffee , a lobby-level café perfect for quick bites, studying, chatting, or working. 

The Hermitage Hotel 

If you're heading into Nashville for a special occasion or simply have a mind to splurge, consider the Hermitage as your home base. Built over a century ago, this luxury hotel north of the Lower Broadway neighborhood is one of Tennessee's treasures. In addition to spacious rooms with vintage furniture, it features a spa, on-site dining, and an air of upscale Southern charm. 

Thompson Hotel

You'll find Thompson Hotel in The Gulch, an upscale neighborhood with loads of eateries and boutiques. This luxury hotel has a modern minimalist feel and offers floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown Nashville. While you're there, check out L.A. Jackson , a rooftop bar with sweeping views.

The Fairlane Hotel 

A boutique hotel in the North of Broadway neighborhood, the Fairlane Hotel is dripping with midcentury elegance. The velvet accent pillows, wood paneling, brass details, and terrazzo flooring will make you feel like you're on a movie set.

Toying with the idea of staying in an Airbnb instead of a hotel? Check out our roundup of the Best Airbnbs in Nashville .

Eating delicious food is an essential part of experiencing Nashville. Some of the best BBQ, biscuits, and fried-chicken spots are in Music City, so make sure to try a little bit of everything while you're visiting. Here's where to start:

Biscuit Love

For perhaps the fluffiest, most decadent biscuits you'll have the privilege of devouring, look no further than Biscuit Love in The Gulch. From biscuits and gravy to biscuit benedict, you'll be in buttery-biscuit heaven.

Edley's Bar-B-Que 

With multiple locations throughout Nashville, Edley's Bar-B-Que is the place to go if you're craving authentic Nashville BBQ.

Cafe Roze 

East Nashville's Cafe Roze is a petite, airy cafe on the ground floor of a quaint historic building. It offers a casual ambiance and a refined menu. Stop by if you're looking for a cup of coffee, brunch, or late dinner.

The Yellow Porch 

When the weather's right, a visit to The Yellow Porch in Berry Hill is the place to be. The casual restaurant offers seasonal fare with a Mediterranean influence.

Catbird Seat 

Midtown's Catbird Seat is a bijou restaurant perfect for celebrating a special occasion or splurging for no particular reason. The intimate eatery, which serves American cuisine, features a U-shaped seating arrangement and accommodates only 23 people at a time. You'll need to make your reservation at least a month in advance.

Grilled Cheeserie

An entire restaurant dedicated to grilled cheese? It's as good as it sounds. These aren't your typical grilled cheeses, though: Grilled Cheeserie 's menu offers a fun assortment from "buffalo South" to "pizza melt" to a build-your-own option. Head over to the eatery in Hillsboro Village for a cheesy experience.

The Treehouse

Get your farm-to-table East Nashville experience at The Treehouse , an award-winning restaurant that specializes in seasonal offerings made with locally sourced ingredients. Grab one of their handcrafted cocktails while you're there. 

From large and small museums to honky-tonks, shows, and more, there's no shortage of ways to spend your time in Nashville. Here's a list of must-do activities in the city:

Ryman Auditorium

A visit to Nashville is not complete without dropping by the famed Ryman Auditorium , the historic and storied North of Broadway music venue where the Grand Ole Opry got its start. 

Grand Ole Opry

Few things say Nashville like an evening at the Grand Ole Opry . The radio show, which began in 1925, has found a new (and bigger) home in East Nashville, and it broadcasts routinely for a live audience.

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum 

Get your fix of country-music knowledge at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in the South of Broadway area. You'll get to learn more about all your favorite musicians and enjoy special exhibits.

Layla's Honky Tonk

For an authentic honky-tonk experience (read: a place where the locals go), hit up Layla's Honky Tonk downtown. You're bound to catch some live music while enjoying cheap drinks and a lively atmosphere.

National Museum of African American Music

Visiting the National Museum of African American Music is a must when you come to Nashville. Preserving the legacy of music's most remarkable luminaries, the museum offers a closer look into how Black artists influenced so many of the genres we know and love today.

Johnny Cash Museum

If you're in the mood for a smaller music museum, swing by the Johnny Cash Museum in the South of Broadway area. It'll take about 45 to 90 minutes to walk through as you enjoy the memorabilia, trivia, and more. The Patsy Cline Museum is on the floor above it. 

Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl 

Craving a spooky night and some good booze along the way? Try the Nashville Haunted Pub Crawl . It's a great way to learn some ghostly stories, as well as more about the history of Nashville. You'll meet in downtown Nashville and walk from one destination to the next.

Frist Art Museum

In the city's historic US Post Office building, the Frist Art Museum is perhaps Nashville's most notable art museum. It features rotating exhibitions from some of the most prestigious collections. The museum also hosts events, workshops, and lectures.

Belmont Mansion 

For a change of pace, consider dropping by the Belmont Mansion , which is on the idyllic Belmont University campus. The Italian-style villa was built in 1853 as a summer getaway for the very wealthy Acklen family and eventually became part of Belmont University.

As is the case with traveling anywhere, you'll want to be mindful of a few things before visiting Nashville. Keep these advisories top of mind as you plan your trip:

COVID-19 advisory

Nashville is considered "open" and not operating under capacity restrictions or curfews. Masks are required in all Metropolitan Government buildings and encouraged elsewhere, though every private business has its own policy regarding masks and proof of vaccination. Music City tourism is booming, so expect large crowds both inside and outside. For the most up-to-date information regarding coronavirus precautions and mandates in Nashville, check the Nashville Music City website .

While Nashville does have all four seasons, they tend to be a bit milder compared with other locales. You can expect hot and humid summers, cold and wet winters, and a pleasant spring and fall. Tornadoes are a threat in the early-to-mid spring.

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Interstate Road Conditions

Here are the interstate road conditions listed by state. In addition to winter weather travel reports and road closures, you’ll also be able to see construction delays, lane closures, chain law status, and possible detours.

5-1-1 is a great resource!

Don’t forget that most states have a 5-1-1 system. Just call 5-1-1 from your cell phone and you’ll automatically be directed to an automated roadway travel information system. These recorded messages are specific to the state you’re in and may also give information for surrounding states. 

They will always have updated information about interstate road conditions as well as info for many smaller roads.

NOTE: The 5-1-1 traveler alert system is currently being implemented nationwide, but not all states use this system yet.

Current Interstate Road Conditions by State

Alabama road conditions.

Alabama Road Conditions are easily obtained over the web. Please visit this site for more info on all Alabama road conditions and Alabama road closure information:

Current Alabama Road Conditions and Road Closures

Alaska Road Conditions

There are several ways to obtain Alaska Road Conditions. You may use both online road condition reports as well as phone recordings:

Since Alaska uses the 5-1-1 telephone information service, you may dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the state boundaries to receive recorded messages of roadway condition reports.

For Alaska weather-related roadway conditions only (no construction reports) you may dial 800-478-7675. This only works within state boundaries.

If you’re calling from out of state, you may obtain Alaska roadway conditions at 886-282-7577.

All Alaska road conditions can be viewed online. Check out the interactive Alaska Road Conditions map here . 

Road conditions and alerts are provided by Alaska DOT&PF through Twitter updates. Follow them @alaska511.

Arizona Road Conditions

There are a few different ways to obtain Arizona road conditions.

Arizona is a state which uses the 5-1-1 traveler information phone system. If you’re anywhere in the state, you may dial 5-1-1 to receive current Arizona road conditions via a recorded message including interstate road conditions.

If you need to obtain Arizona road conditions but are outside of the state, you may dial 888-411-7623 for the latest Arizona roadway reports.

You can now obtain Arizona road conditions online:

Click here to see the latest Arizona high-impact travel alerts or follow them on Twitter @ArizonaDOT.

Arkansas Road Conditions

Arkansas road conditions can be obtained by several different methods.

Arkansas does NOT use the 5-1-1 traveler phone system for interstate road conditions.

For Arkansas weather roadway information only, motorists should call 800-245-1672. No construction reports will be available at this number.

For full Arkansas road conditions including construction and weather-related reports, motorists should call 501-569-2000. This number only works within state boundaries.

If you are out of state but still wish to obtain Arkansas road conditions, please dial 501-569-2227.

Arkansas road conditions are also available online:

Click here for current Arkansas road conditions

Finally, you may sign up for the Arkansas roadway conditions Twitter feed IDriveArkansas.

California Road Conditions

California road conditions are available from a variety of sources.

Since California uses the 5-1-1 phone system, you may dial 5-1-1 within state boundaries for updated roadway conditions including California road closures, construction reports, interstate road conditions, and weather conditions.

If you’re only interested in hearing California weather-related road conditions and closures, you may dial 800-427-7623.

For California road construction reports only dial 916-445-7623

California operates a few different online road condition websites:

• Click here for San Francisco Bay Area road conditions
• Click here for California road conditions in the Sacramento area
• Click here for San Diego area roadway conditions

Colorado Road Conditions

Colorado road conditions can be found in a few different places.

Since Colorado is a 5-1-1 equipped state, you may dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries to obtain updated recorded messages about the latest Colorado road conditions and interstate road conditions.

Alternatively, motorists may dial 877-315-7623 for Colorado travel information. However, this number only works within state boundaries.

For those seeking Colorado interstate road conditions outside of the state, dial 916-639-1111.

Colorado roadway information may also be obtained online:

Click here for Colorado Road Conditions or follow them on Twitter for real-time traffic updates @ColoradoDOT. More travel tips here .

Connecticut Road Conditions

Connecticut road conditions can be obtained from a few different sources.

Within state boundaries, motorists can dial 800-443-6817 for the latest Connecticut road conditions. Please note that this number only works within state boundaries.

For weather-related road closures and delays only (no construction information), dial 860-594-2000.

Online road conditions for Connecticut can be found here . 

Delaware Road Conditions

Delaware road conditions can be obtained either over telephone via recorded messages or on the web.

For those dialing within state boundaries, dial 800-652-5600.

For interstate road conditions from outside state lines, dial 302-760-2080.

Click here for Delaware road conditions online . Here‘s the link to their interactive map .

Florida Road Conditions

Florida road conditions can be obtained via telephone or through the web.

Since the state of Florida uses the 5-1-1 telephone road conditions system, motorists can dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries for updated recorded messages on roadway conditions.

Click here for Florida road conditions statewide .

You can also follow them on Twitter Follow @FL511_STATE for state-wide traffic updates. Check here for their regional Twitter handles.

Georgia Road Conditions

Georgia road conditions can be obtained from multiple sources.

Georgia is equipped with a 5-1-1 traveler alert phone system. Motorists can dial 5-1-1 anywhere within Georgia state boundaries for updated messages on current road conditions.

Georgia interstate road conditions can also be obtained by dialing 877-694-2511 or 404-635-8000.

Click here for current Georgia roadway conditions . You can also follow them on Twitter @ga_dps for real-time traffic updates.

Hawaii Road Conditions

The state of Hawaii doesn’t have a specific system in place. However, in 2013, the state Department of Transportation (DOT) launched the new 511 GoAkamai by Phone system, an interactive voice response system that provides real-time traffic information and updates for the island of Oahu. 

For specific state roads and highways, check the links below:

Click here for current Hawaii road conditions and road work information. For live, real-time traffic information on Oahu’s major arteries visit GoAkamai.org

You can download the GoAkamai App for iPhone/iPad from the Apple Store and from Google Play for Android smartphones.

Meanwhile, you can follow HDOT’s Facebook Page and Twitter @DOTHawaii for updates on weather-related traffic alerts and road closures.

Idaho Road Conditions

Idaho road conditions can be obtained through a few different sources.

Since Idaho uses the 5-1-1 phone system, motorists can call 5-1-1 within state boundaries for updated recorded traffic information including Idaho road closures, interstate road conditions, and weather alerts.

If calling from out of state, Idaho roadway and Interstate road conditions can be obtained by dialing 888-432-7623.

Check out roadway conditions, chain law status, and mobile phone roadway condition apps here . This interactive map can be viewed by downloading the Idaho 511 map from Apple Store or Google Play , too.

Illinois Road Conditions

While the state of Illinois currently doesn’t offer a 5-1-1 traveler information system for interstate road conditions, there are still few ways to receive updated information about weather delays, construction delays, Illinois road conditions, and road closures.

For recorded messages, motorists should call 800-452-4368.

Check out this interactive map for roadway closures, construction zones, and much more

You can also get official updates from the Illinois Department of Transportation if you follow them on Twitter @IDOT_Illinois.

Indiana Road Conditions

Indiana has two phone numbers to obtain Indiana road conditions as well as a website to obtain official and updated highway weather-related conditions. Please note that the below number only gives weather-related travel info and does not include other delays and closures such as construction projects. For information not related to weather, please visit their website listed below.

Motorists may call toll-free 800-261-7623 for recorded messages with updated weather-related closures and delays.

An alternative number with the same recorded message is 317-232-5533.

To obtain information about road closures, weather-related delays, construction projects, and more, please visit this website . This interactive map provides information to motorists to drive safely and efficiently.

Iowa Road Conditions

Iowa uses the 5-1-1 traveler advisory system which allows drivers to dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries (including from cell phones) to obtain updated recorded messages on specific Iowa road conditions.

If calling from out of state, you may dial toll-free 800-288-1047. to obtain updated information on Iowa road conditions, Iowa road closures, and more.

Motorists may visit this website for updated interactive maps showing construction zones, weather alerts, roadway closures, etc You can also download the Iowa 511 mobile app from Google Play or Apple Store .

Kansas Road Conditions

Kansas road conditions can now be obtained through the 5-1-1 traveler information system. Motorists can dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the state boundaries of Kansas, including from cell phones, to receive updated messages about roadway delays including major interstate closures, weather delays, construction delays, and more.

If calling from out of state, you may call 800-585-7623

For an interactive map showing roadway closures, construction alerts, weather delays, and more visit this webpage , or check KanDrive for real-time Kansas Traffic Highlights.

You can also subscribe to their social media pages here .

Kentucky Road Conditions

Kentucky is now part of the 5-1-1 system which provides travel alerts including interstate road conditions, roadway closures, and more. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries (including cell phones) for updated recorded messages.

If calling from out of state, travelers should dial 866-737-3767.

This website is for the Kentucky 5-1-1 system with interactive roadway maps showing all travel hazards and roadway closures .

You can also check this website or check GoKY for an interactive map showing real-time Kentucky Traffic Information.

Louisiana Road Conditions

While Louisiana does have a partial 5-1-1 system in place, there is currently no 5-1-1 phone system in operation. However, there are still a couple of different ways to obtain Louisiana road conditions.

Those wishing to obtain Louisiana road conditions via a toll-free phone number may do so by dialing 888-762-3511.

This webpage will give you detailed traveler information for Louisiana including roadway closures, travel alerts, weather alerts, construction projects, and more.

You can also get up-to-the-minute, real-time traffic conditions and incident information for the State of Louisiana with Louisiana 511. You can download the app for free on Apple Store and Google Play or subscribe/follow their social media pages here .

Maine Road Conditions

Obtaining Maine road conditions has become much simpler with the implementation of the statewide 5-1-1 traveler advisory system. Motorists may dial 5-1-1, anywhere within state boundaries (including cell phones) for updated recorded messages. This includes interstate road conditions, road closures, weather alerts, construction projects, and unforeseen travel delays.

For travelers seeking information by telephone outside the state limits of Maine, there are two different phone numbers available. First, you can call toll-free at 866-282-5650. Alternatively, you may dial the local number which is 207-624-3595.

Check out this online version of the 5-1-1 system for Maine road conditions using an interactive and detailed map

The official Twitter account for the Maine Department of Transportation is @MaineDOT1.

Maryland Road Conditions

Maryland road conditions may be obtained using two telephone numbers. But it’s important to note that Maryland is currently not a part of the 5-1-1 phone system.

Motorists should dial toll-free 800-543-2515 or dial their local number which is 410-582-5650. These numbers will give updated Maryland roadway information reports and interstate road conditions.

This website will give online information about Maryland road conditions. Click here to view an interactive map.

You can also follow them on Twitter @MD511State for automatic and real-time tweets of major roadway events or @MDSHA for monitored updates.

Massachusetts Road Conditions

Massachusetts road conditions may be obtained from the statewide 5-1-1 telephone traveler information system. Anywhere within state limits, motorists may dial 5-1-1, including from cell phones, to receive updated recorded traveler and motorist alerts including Massachusetts road closures, interstate road conditions, highway alerts, and more.

If calling from out-of-state boundaries, Massachusetts road conditions may be obtained by calling 617-374-1234.

Alternatively, you may obtain Massachusetts regional road conditions via the following phone numbers:

• Metro Boston: 617-986-5511
• Central Mass: 508-499-5511
• Western Mass: 413-754-5511

Check out this site for updated Massachusetts road conditions with interactive maps

For real-time traffic updates, you can also follow them on Twitter @MassDOT.

Michigan Road Conditions

While Michigan doesn’t have very good traveler information and alert system, there are still a few ways to obtain Michigan road conditions.

Be advised that Michigan is currently not a part of the 5-1-1 phone system.

For all roadway and travel hazards, motorists should call 800-381-8477. This number will give information about road closures in Michigan, weather alerts, interstate road conditions, etc.

If you only want to obtain Detroit area construction updates and information, you can call 800-641-6368. Please note this number will not give information related to weather or closures other than planned construction projects.

This site has some online information with Michigan travel advisories and alerts

Minnesota Road Conditions

Minnesota road conditions may be obtained through several different sources.

The 5-1-1 traveler advisory system is currently active in the state of Minnesota. This means travelers can obtain information about Minnesota road closures, highway advisories, construction projects, and other delays by dialing 5-1-1 from any phone within state boundaries, including cell phones.

For motorists calling out of state needing Minnesota road conditions, dial 800-657-3774.

Alternatively, interstate road conditions may be obtained by calling 651-296-3000.

This is the online version of the Minnesota traveler advisory system

Mississippi Road Conditions

Mississippi road conditions are available via telephone or via the internet. Currently, Mississippi is not a part of the 5-1-1 traveler information system, but they do have plans in place to implement it.

For now, travelers should call 601-359-7017. This number will give updated information for Mississippi road closures, weather-related info, and hurricane evacuation info when evacuations are in effect.

Mississippi road conditions can also be found online on this webpage

You can sign up for email or text alerts about traffic and road conditions, and customize alerts according to your daily commute here or download the MDOT Traffic App from App Store or Google Play .

Missouri Road Conditions

Missouri road conditions can be obtained from many different sources, including 5-1-1. Since Missouri has a 5-1-1 motorist information system, you can dial 5-1-1 from any phone within state boundaries including from your cell phone. The 5-1-1 system will give recorded messages that will notify you of Missouri road closures, weather conditions, delays, and construction information.

If calling from out of state, the 5-1-1 system can be reached by calling toll-free, 877-478-5511. Two alternate phone numbers are 888-275-6636 or 573-751-2551.

Finally, for individuals who are only looking for construction-related issues including road closures and delays, you may dial 800-222-6400.

Click here for an interactive map of Missouri weather travel, flooding, construction projects, road closures, and roadway information. More info here . You can also follow them on Twitter for traffic-related updates @MoDOT.

Montana Road Conditions

Montana road conditions can be obtained using the states 5-1-1 telephone system. Anywhere within state limits, motorists may dial 5-1-1 (including cell phones) to obtain Montana roadway weather information which includes the status of tire chain laws and interstate road conditions. Other delays such as Montana construction delays and road closures can also be obtained by using 5-1-1.

If calling from out of state, dial toll-free 800-226-7623 for updated Montana road conditions.

Click here for online traveler information in the state of Montana

Nebraska Road Conditions

Nebraska road conditions can be obtained via telephone using their statewide 5-1-1 traveler information system. You may dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries, including cell phones, for the latest Nebraska road closures, weather alerts, and other delays including construction projects.

If calling from out of state, two numbers may be used to obtain Nebraska travel information; 800-906-9069 or 402-471-4533.

For Nebraska road conditions online check out this page . 

Learn More about Nebraska Traveler System here or view Nebraska’s 511 traveler information on your Android or iOS device by downloading the NE 511 app.

Nevada Road Conditions

Nevada road conditions may be obtained using the statewide 5-1-1 traveler information system. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state limits to obtain automated messages about Nevada road closures, chain law status, weather alerts, interstate road conditions, and construction information.

If calling outside of state boundaries, motorists should dial 877-687-6237 for the latest Nevada roadway alerts.

For Nevada road conditions online check out this page . 

Check this link for other Nevada Travel Info or follow them on Twitter @nevadadot for real-time traffic updates. Regional traffic & project updates: @NevadaDOTVegas @NevadaDOTReno @NevadaDOTElko .

New Hampshire Road Conditions

New Hampshire interstate road conditions can be obtained using the statewide 5-1-1 traveler advisory system. Simply dial 5-1-1 from any landline or cell phone within state limits for updated New Hampshire road closures, travel weather alerts, construction delays, and any other pertinent highway information.

For those wishing to obtain New Hampshire highway condition reports outside of the state, information is available 24/7/265 by calling 866-282-7579.

Click here for the New Hampshire online 5-1-1 traveler alert system

You can also follow them on Twitter:

• @nhdoti93 for NH DOT I-93
• @nhdoti95 for NH DOT I-95
• @NHDOTI293 for NH DOT I-293
• @@NHDOTEverett for NH DOT Everett
• @NHDOTI89 for NH DOT I-89
• @NHDOTSpaulding for NH DOT Spaulding Turnpike traffic alerts!
• @NHDOTNH101 for NH DOT NH-101 (Manchester to Hampton) traffic alerts!  
• @NHDOTRoutes for real-time NH/US Route traffic alerts!

New Jersey Road Conditions

New Jersey interstate road conditions are accessible from a number of sources. Within state boundaries, motorists should dial 5-1-1 from any phone, including cell phones, for the latest information on highway travel conditions, travel weather alerts, roadway closures, and interstate road conditions.

For travel information and road conditions specific to the New Jersey Turnpike, travelers should dial 800-336-5875.

Roadway alerts and information for the Garden State Parkway can be obtained by calling 732-727-5929.

Click here for all New Jersey road conditions

Click here New Jersey Turnpike travel conditions and advisories

New Mexico Road Conditions

New Mexico interstate road conditions can be obtained by calling their roadway advisory phone number at 800-432-4269. This number will give information about weather alerts, New Mexico road closures, highway information, construction alerts, and any other urgent travel information.

New Mexico does not currently operate a 5-1-1 system, but plans are in place for implementation.

Click here for New Mexico road conditions online

New York Road Conditions

New York road conditions can now be obtained using their newly established 5-1-1 traveler information line. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state boundaries from any phone (including cell phones) and you’ll be connected to a recorded message which is updated with New York road closure information, weather alerts, interstate road conditions, and other urgent traveler information.

If calling from out of state, the New York traveler information line can be reached by dialing 518-457-6195.

For travel information specific to the New York Thruway dial 800-847-8929.

The New York DOT homepage will post alerts during major inclement weather and can be obtained here

Follow them on Twitter @511NY for traffic & transit updates for all of New York State provided by New York State 511.

North Carolina Road Conditions

North Carolina road conditions can be obtained anywhere within state lines by using their automated 5-1-1 traveler alert system. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the state to get the 

latest on North Carolina road closures, hurricane evacuation routes, weather information, and construction alerts.

If calling from out of state, the traveler advisory phone system can be reached by dialing 877-511-4662.

Check out the online version of the North Carolina traveler advisory system here and check the links below for other information you might need:

• Live Traffic Updates – DriveNC.gov
• 511 Information Line

North Dakota Road Conditions

North Dakota road conditions are available 24/7/365 via the statewide traveler advisory automated phone system. Simply dial 5-1-1 within state lines to obtain the latest on North Dakota road closures, highway closures, interstate road conditions, weather alerts, construction delays, and urgent motorist information.

North Dakota road conditions may be obtained using the online 5-1-1 traveler advisory system here . 511 Safe Travel USA provides current road conditions and construction projects for South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, Kansas, and Wyoming using a color-coded highway system.

You can also download ND Roads (North Dakota’s mobile travel app on Apple App Store or on Google Play Store to view information that is relevant to the traveling public. Click here to visit the web version in your browser or follow them on Twitter @NorthDakotaDOT.

Ohio Road Conditions

Ohio road conditions are available from several different resources.

First, Ohio has a traveler advisory phone system which is accessible by dialing 5-1-1 anywhere within state lines. Sometimes this number will give info about statewide conditions, but normally it will only cover major cities.

Alternatively, info can be obtained by calling 614-466-7170. Please note, this number only provides weather-related travel information.

Several websites are also available to obtain Ohio road conditions and roadway closure information:

• This page gives Ohio road conditions, traffic alerts, construction alerts, and other advisories for the entire state of Ohio.
• For information specific to the Ohio Turnpike, click here
• This page gives travel information and roadway conditions for the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area

You can also follow them on Twitter @OhioTurnpike .

Oklahoma Road Conditions

While Oklahoma currently does not operate a statewide 5-1-1 travel advisory phone system, there are still a couple of ways to obtain Oklahoma road conditions both by phone and via the internet.

Travelers may dial toll-free 888-425-2385 or 405-425-2385. Please note these numbers will only give weather-related traffic information for the state of Oklahoma but do include road closures and information for all major interstates and highways in Oklahoma.

For updated Oklahoma road conditions you may also visit the Oklahoma DOT website here or access Ok Traffic here .

Oregon Road Conditions

Oregon road conditions are accessible using the statewide 5-1-1 traveler alert system. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the Oregon state boundaries for Oregon road closure information, tire chain law status, construction delays, and urgent travel alerts.

If calling from out of the state, the traveler advisory system can be reached by calling toll-free 800-977-6368 or 503-588-2941.

Alternatively, Oregon road closures and road conditions can be obtained online:

Check out current Oregon road conditions here

Pennsylvania Road Conditions

Pennsylvania road conditions are now available using the Pennsylvania 5-1-1 traveler info system. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state lines for the latest roadway information including PA road closures and weather impacts.

Alternatively, within state boundaries, you may dial 888-783-6783. Please note this number will not work if calling out of state.

If you’re seeking Pennsylvania travel conditions from another state, call 717-783-5186.

Finally, Pennsylvania road conditions are available online:

Here is the online traveler info system for PA

You can also follow them on Twitter @511PAStatewide for travel information and traffic alerts for all of Pennsylvania.

Rhode Island Road Conditions

Rhode Island road conditions can be accessed using their fully automated 5-1-1 travel advisory phone system. Call 5-1-1 if you’re within state boundaries for the most up-to-date information on Rhode Island road closures and travel alerts.

If calling from outside RI, travelers may dial toll-free 888-401-4511.

For Rhode Island Road Conditions online, click here

South Carolina Road Conditions

South Carolina road conditions can be obtained using their newly implemented 5-1-1 traveler info line. You may dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the state of South Carolina for updated travel times, South Carolina road closures, and urgent messages.

If you’re seeking information about South Carolina road conditions and are out of state, please refer to their website . 

Click here for South Carolina Road Conditions online

You can also download the SC 511 App for iPhone or Android or reach SC 511 from outside of South Carolina by calling (877) 511-4672.

South Dakota Road Conditions

South Dakota road conditions can be obtained by using their statewide 5-1-1 road condition information line. Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within the state for the latest South Dakota road closures, travel weather information, and urgent alerts.

If calling from out of state, the South Dakota Road Conditions line may be reached by calling toll-free 866-679-3511 (866-MYSD511).

For South Dakota Road Conditions online, check out this page

511 Safe Travel USA provides current road conditions and construction projects for South Dakota, North Dakota, Nebraska, Montana, Kansas, and Wyoming using a color-coded highway system.

Tennessee Road Conditions

Tennessee road conditions are available anywhere within state lines by calling 5-1-1. This number will give info on Tennessee road closures, travel weather alerts, and other important motorist information.

If calling from out of state you may access this system by dialing toll-free 877-244-0065.

Tennessee road conditions are also available online via this webpage

The TDOT website featuring TNSmartWay provides real-time traffic information in Tennessee and similar traffic information is also “tweeted” to the public through TDOT Twitter pages using @myTDOT.

Texas Road Conditions

Texas road conditions are now available using the newly implemented statewide 5-1-1 travel advisory phone system. Simply dial 5-1-1 from within state boundaries for information on Texas road closures, hurricane evacuation route information, travel weather advisories, and other urgent motorist information.

If calling from outside Texas state lines, this system may be obtained by calling toll-free 800-452-9292.

You may also click here for Texas road conditions and alerts online

Road conditions and traffic updates are available on DriveTexas.org , Facebook , and Twitter .

Utah Road Conditions

Utah road conditions can be obtained by using the statewide 5-1-1 travel conditions and alerts system. Motorists can receive updated travel information and alerts by calling 5-1-1 anywhere in the state. Information includes the status of Utah chain laws, travel weather info, interstate road conditions, construction alerts, Utah road closures, and other urgent motorist information.

If calling from out of state, this system can be reached by calling toll-free 800-492-2400 or 866-511-8824.

Utah also operates a website with all Utah road conditions:

Click here for Utah road conditions online

The UDOT Traffic App contains the same information as the website for iPhones and Androids. You can download it through the Apple Store or Google Play .

You can also follow them on Twitter @UDOTTRAFFIC for tweets on information to help travelers from the Traffic Operations Center.

Vermont Road Conditions

Vermont road conditions are easily obtainable using the statewide 5-1-1 traveler info line. Anywhere within state lines, you may dial 5-1-1 for updated Vermont road closures, travel weather alerts, and urgent motorist information.

This system can also be accessed if calling from out of state by dialing 800-429-7623.

For online Vermont road conditions click here

Follow them on Twitter @511VT for traffic updates and information on road conditions, closures, weather events, and more. Other social media links here .

Virginia Road Conditions

Virginia road conditions are available using the statewide 5-1-1 traveler information automated phone system. If you’re within the state boundaries of Virginia, call 5-1-1 for the latest Virginia road closures, travel weather impacts, delays, and urgent motorist information.

The traveler information system can also be reached out of state by calling 800-367-7623 or 800-578-4111.

For Virginia road conditions online click here

Washington Road Conditions

Washington road conditions are now easily accessible using the statewide 5-1-1 automated road conditions phone line. Simply dial 5-1-1 within state boundaries for the latest Washington road closures, snow chain law status, travel weather, delays, interstate road conditions, and urgent motorist information.

If calling from out of state, dial 800-695-7623.

For Washington road conditions and traffic alerts online click here

West Virginia Road Conditions

West Virginia interstate road conditions can now be obtained using their newly implemented statewide 5-1-1 travel advisory system. If you are calling from within West Virginia, simply dial 5-1-1 for the latest West Virginia road closures, weather alerts, construction delays, and urgent motorist advisories.

You may call 1-855-699-8511 if you can’t access 511. This system may also be accessed out of state by calling 877-982-7623, although this number will only give weather-related road conditions for West Virginia.

Click here to access West Virginia road conditions online

Mobile friendly West Virginia road conditions

Follow them on Twitter @WV511 for Statewide Traffic Updates.

Wisconsin Road Conditions

Wisconsin road conditions are now available using the statewide 5-1-1 travel advisory phone system . Simply dial 5-1-1 anywhere within state lines for updated Wisconsin road closure info, weather advisories, and urgent motorist information.

To access this system out of state, dial 866-511-9472 (toll-free).

Click here for Wisconsin road conditions online

Wyoming Road Conditions

Wyoming Road Conditions are available by dialing 5-1-1 anywhere within state lines. This automated system gives information on Wyoming road closures, chain law status, interstate road conditions, and any other weather-related travel impacts for the state of Wyoming.

If calling from out of state, you may dial 888-996-7623 (1-888-WYO-ROAD) for the latest interstate road conditions.

Click here for Wyoming road conditions online

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What's an air quality alert? Which Tennessee city has worst air quality and what to know ahead of summer

As summer and the end of school approach, many families are gearing up to spend the hot days outside, but that may do more harm than good depending on the day.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency monitors the air quality for days when it may be hazardous to health. In most parts of Tennessee, there are not many days where it is truly unsafe to go outside, so warm weather is still enjoyable. The closer you are to a metropolitan area, the more likely it is that you will have times when it is unsafe to go outside.

Here are some things to know about air quality alerts and what they mean for Tennessee.

What is an air quality alert?

Air quality is measured on the Air Quality Index , or AQI. The index was created by the Environmental Protection Agency in 1999. Air quality alerts, or AQAs, are issued when the AQI reaches above 50. Above 50, certain groups are more vulnerable to the air than others.

Here is the scale for the AQI:

• Green is 0 to 50: Air quality is satisfactory and poses little to no risk.
• Yellow is 51 to 100: Air quality is acceptable but may be a risk for some people particularly those sensitive to air pollution.
• Orange is 101 to 150: Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, but the general public is less likely to be affected.
• Red is 151 to 200: Some members of the general public may experience health effects.
• Purple is 201 to 300: The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.
• Maroon is 301 to 500: These are emergency conditions where everyone is more likely to be affected.

When yellow or higher, the groups referred to as being at risk include the elderly, children and those with heart or lung conditions.

What causes bad air quality?

There are a number of factors that affect the air quality, however, it has been linked to a few key elements which have caused the alerts to be more frequent in recent years. Outdoor and indoor air pollution, airborne allergens, disastrous weather, and warmer temperatures are all things that affect the air quality.

Wildfire smoke, such as the smoke from Canadian wildfires that have flared up in British Columbia and Alberta, can also contribute to poor air quality, prompting current warnings in Milwaukee and other parts of the country.

To measure air quality, there are four major pollutants monitored and regulated by the Clean Air Act: ground level ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide and sulfur dioxide.

Ground level ozone, a major component of smog, can cause coughing, chest tightness or pain, decrease lung function and worsen asthma and other chronic lung diseases. Carbon monoxide decreases the amount of oxygen reaching the body’s organs and can cause flu-like symptoms and chest pain in those with cardiovascular disease. Normally sulfur dioxide is kept out of the body by the nasal passages, but when physical exertion necessitates mouth breathing, the irritating gas can cause wheezing, shortness of breath and tightness in the chest. 

Particulate matter , or PM, contains microscopic liquid droplets or solids that are so small they can be inhaled and cause health problems. Some particles less than 10 micrometers in diameters can get into your lungs and bloodstream. This is four times the size of the particulate matter measured by the EPA to determine particulate pollution annually.

What to do when an air quality alert is issued?

When an air quality alert is issued , it is best to keep people who are at risk inside as much as possible. Even if you are not someone at risk for the lower levels of caution on the AQI, it is best to limit yourself to outdoor exposure as well.

It is also important to not burn debris or anything else when AQAs are issued as the smoke would contribute more the quality of air decreasing.

Does Tennessee have good air quality?

According to the American Lung Association , Tennessee has relatively clean air . Only 15 counties report the ozone levels for each day, and 16 report the particle pollution for each day. For 2023, 8 of the 15 measured cities had zero days where health would be in danger from poor air quality.

High ozone days are measured by the number of days when the air quality reached over 100, or into the orange category. The days are added up on a weighted scale where the higher the AQI category, the bigger the number. That number is then divided by three to get a score. It uses an A, B, C scale where A is zero and F is anything three or higher.

Shelby County had the worst grade with an F as there were 12 days where the quality reached orange and 2 days where it reached red. The next highest county was Davidson County where there were only three days in the orange category. It had a C grade.

Particle pollution is a bit more complicated in the way it's measured. The scores are based on the national standard for particulate matter smaller than 2.5 micrometers. If areas had more concentration of the particulate matter, they would have higher scores. Counties with values greater than 9 will receive a "Fail."

In Tennessee, only two counties of the 16 measured failed the particle pollution scale: Davidson and Knox County. Davidson County had a score of 9.1, and Knox County had a score of 9.4.

What cities have the worst air quality?

According to the American Lung Association, the worst place for ozone pollution in the United States is the Los Angeles-Long Beach area in California. The score for number of days with high ozone levels was 175.2. For particulate pollution, the worst city in the United States is Bakersfield, California with a score of 18.8.

Cities with high ozone levels annually

• Los Angeles-Long Beach, California: 175.2
• Visalia, California: 103
• Bakersfield, California: 87.5
• Fresno-Madera-Hanford, California: 52.2
• Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona: 47.7
• Denver-Aurora, Colorado: 40.3
• Sacramento-Roseville, California: 29.3
• San Diego-Chula Vista-Carlsbad, California: 25.2
• Salt Lake City-Provo-Orem, Utah: 24
• Houston-The Woodlands, Texas: 23.2

Cities with high particulate pollution annually

• Bakersfield, California: 18.8
• Visalia, California: 18.4
• Fresno-Madera-Hanford, California: 17.5
• Eugene-Springfield, Oregon: 14.7
• San Jose-San Francisco-Oakland, California: 14.3
• Los Angeles-Long Beach, California: 14
• Sacramento-Roseville, California: 13.8
• Medford-Grants Pass, Oregon: 13.5
• Phoenix-Mesa, Arizona: 12.4
• Fairbanks, Alaska: 12.2

Why are air quality alerts more frequent?

Air quality alerts are issued during times when ground level ozone and/or fine particle concentrations reach unhealthy levels in an area. As the climate on Earth gets hotter, air quality alerts can be expected to occur more often as warmer temperatures cause more damage via wildfires, smog spread and severe weather.

Tennessee residents on tornado's path may have seen this unusual weather emergency alert. Here's what it means

As storms raged across Tennessee, thousands are bombarded with alerts on their phones for tornado warnings and watches.

More than 22 million people in eight states had been under a tornado watch Wednesday evening in portions of eight states: Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, and Tennessee.

If you live in Middle Tennessee, you may have even seen an unusual alert on your lock screen: tornado emergency.

The National Weather Service (NWS) issued tornado emergencies for Southern Maury County, Southern Williamson County and Southwestern Rutherford County May 8.

"At 5:52 p.m., a confirmed large and destructive tornado was located near Spring Hill, or 9 miles east of Columbia, moving northeast at 25 mph," the weather service said.

What's a tornado emergency?

A tornado emergency is the weather service's highest alert level.

It means there's a large tornado coming and it's going towards a populated area. They often bring fatalities, but NWS meteorologist Andrew Moulton told Knox News they're very rare.

"The vast majority of (meteorologists) go our entire career and never issue one," he said. "I hope I never issue one of those in my career."

What's the difference between a watch, a warning and an emergency?

You've probably heard of tornado watches and warnings.

A watch means to be prepared. The NWS instructs people to review and discuss emergency plans, check supplies and locate a safe room when a watch is issued.

A warning means it's go time, a tornado has actually been sighted or indicated by weather radar. The NWS says to move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building and to avoid windows.

An emergency has all the same instructions as a warning, but as Moulton said, "not all tornadoes are equal."

"It's basically saying, 'Hey, we know there's a tornado on the ground. And not just, like, a small one.'" Moulton said. "It's a step up from a base tornado warning."

Will Tennessee have another tornado emergency?

Besides the ones issued in Middle Tennessee, Moulton, who's based in East Tennessee, said he doesn't expect to see more.

"I think we're going to see a break," he said. "We could see some showers and some weak thunderstorms over the next couple of days but heading into the weekend, it's going to be much quieter."

Allie Feinberg reports on politics for Knox News. Email her: [email protected] and follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @alliefeinberg.

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Waves of storms turn deadly in Tennessee and more twisters are hitting the Southeast

Strong storms tracking through the central and eastern US Wednesday killed at least two people in Tennessee and as night fell, flash flooding and more tornadoes were slamming the state – including one twister that carved a path of destruction in communities south of Nashville.

Tornado warnings also were in effect late Wednesday in several southern states, including in northern Alabama, where a “large and destructive tornado” was in the area of Henagar, a city of a couple thousand people roughly 55 miles east of Huntsville, the National Weather Service said. A tornado warning also was issued earlier Wednesday night in the Huntsville area .

The National Weather Service issued tornado watches for parts of Alabama, Georgia , Arkansas, Mississippi and Tennessee until 3 a.m. CT Thursday. A tornado watch means severe thunderstorms and tornadoes are possible in the watch area.

The National Weather Service said it had four tornado reports Wednesday from Tennessee, with two from Maury County, where a tornado emergency had been in effect. A “confirmed large and destructive tornado” was near the city of Spring Hill around 5:50 p.m. CT, the weather service said.

At least one person was killed and four others were injured in Maury County during the tornado, Maury Regional Medical Center spokesperson Rita Thompson told CNN. Three of those patients have non-life-threatening injuries and one is in serious condition, Thompson said.

The area had widespread damage, with trees down, officials in the county told CNN. Buildings were also damaged, but Maury County Commissioner Eric Previti said he wasn’t aware of the magnitude.

“We are urging for everyone to stay off of the roads. If you can stay at home, stay home,” the Maury County Office Of Emergency Management posted on Facebook .

A flash flood emergency was issued Wednesday evening for Robertson and Sumner Counties in Middle Tennessee along the state line with Kentucky and around 20 to 30 miles north of Nashville, according to the weather service.

“At 6:56 pm CDT, water rescues and very dangerous flooding are occurring in the emergency area,” weather officials said. Radar estimates show 4 to 7 inches of rain have fallen across these counties today, and more heavy rainfall will move across the region over the next several hours.

An official with the Robertson County Emergency Management Agency said there were a few water rescues but no immediate reports of injuries.

The first fatality from the storms was reported in Claiborne County, Tennessee, Wednesday morning. A tree fell onto the person’s car amid intense storms, according to the county’s emergency management office. The person has not been identified.

Dangerous storms with damaging winds, large hail and tornado warnings have been ongoing in several states since Wednesday morning. The hazardous weather is playing out just a day after powerful tornadoes and storms swept through southwestern Michigan, destroying homes and businesses and injuring several residents.

The severe weather is forecasted to shift into the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic on Thursday, bringing with it more hail, damaging winds and the possibility of a few tornadoes.

Here’s the latest on Wednesday’s storms and destruction in Tennessee and Tuesday’s damage in Michigan:

• Chaotic severe weather stretch: April to June is the most active time for tornadoes in the US, and May is typically the busiest month. This year has been no exception. At least one tornado has been reported in the US every day since April 25 – a streak of 14 days and counting.

• Damage and debris on I-65 : The Tennessee Department of Transportation said it was sending crews to an area near Interstate 65 and State Road 99 where there was damage and debris. “1 lane is blocked on I-65S at MM 47 in Maury Co. after a reported tornado passed over the interstate. Reports from the scene are that cars and signs in the area were damaged,” transportation department spokesperson Rebekah Hammonds said on X .

• Mobile home park struck by tornado: More than a dozen people were injured at a mobile home park in Pavilion Township in Kalamazoo County, Michigan, following a tornado Tuesday, according to a city official. Fifteen to 20 people had minor injuries and were transported to two area hospitals, according to the county’s emergency management spokesperson Andrew Alspach.

• One Michigan town may have been hit twice: At least one tornado, possibly two, hit Portage Tuesday evening, as the area faced two tornado warnings in just over an hour, the National Weather Service said. Homes and businesses in the city sustained significant damage, but there were no serious injuries, according to town officials. A tornado ripped a large hole into a FedEx facility. A spokesperson for the Kalamazoo County administrator’s office told  MLive.com  that around 50 people were trapped in the facility for a few hours. CNN has been unable to verify that report. Portage public safety director Nicholas Armold later said all employees were accounted for when emergency responders arrived.

• Damage reported in at least two other Michigan counties: Multiple homes and businesses were destroyed after a possible tornado touched down in Centreville on Tuesday, according to St. Joseph County Undersheriff Jason Bingaman. The storm damage ripped off roofs and flattened homes “completely down,” Bingaman told CNN. At least seven homes were destroyed in nearby Branch County, according to Emergency Management Director Tim Miner.

• First-ever tornado emergency in Michigan: Parts of Branch County, including Union City, were placed under Michigan’s first tornado emergency when “a large and destructive tornado” was over the area Tuesday, according to the National Weather Service. Tornado emergencies are the most extreme tornado warnings and are only issued when a tornado threatens catastrophic damage and loss of life, often in a populated area.

Tornado threat continues Wednesday

Nearly 3.7 million people were under a Level 4 of 5 risk of severe thunderstorms Wednesday night, according to the Storm Prediction Center. Within this risk are parts of Alabama, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky and Tennessee — including Nashville.

An additional 590 million people from Texas, through much of the Ohio Valley and into the mid-Atlantic and Northeast, are under a Level 2 of 5 or Level 3 of 5 risk.

Powerful storms with damaging winds, hail bigger than baseballs and tornado warnings have been roaring across multiple states since Wednesday morning.

Some areas that endured an initial round of severe storms early Wednesday are at risk for another round later in the day – Tennessee is a prime example.

The repeated rounds of storms Wednesday will also deliver torrential rainfall and raise the risk of flooding.

“The greatest flash flooding threat also overlaps with the risk of severe thunderstorms, centered over Kentucky and Tennessee as well sections of neighboring states,” the National Weather Service said. A Level 3 of 4 risk of flooding rainfall is in place here, according to the Weather Prediction Center.

Rainfall rates could reach 2 inches per hour, which could dramatically increase the possibility of flash flooding. Locations worked over by multiple heavy storms could record more than 4 to 5 inches of rain.

CNN’s Steve Almasy, Joe Sutton, Amy Simonson, Lucy Kafanov, Rebekah Riess and Andi Babineau contributed to this report.

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Tornadoes spotted in Oklahoma as Central US braces for severe weather: Updates

At least four tornadoes touched down in Oklahoma and a number of tornado warnings have been issued in Kansas, Nebraska, and Tennessee as millions faced severe weather risks from an outbreak of storms late Monday.

Tornadoes were spotted in northeastern and central Oklahoma, including one in Barnsdall, Oklahoma, — a city about 40 miles north of Tulsa, Oklahoma. There were reports of damages and injuries in the communities of Barnsdall and Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and it was the  second time in about a month that a tornado hit the area.

Further east in the state, the Craig County Emergency Department posted on social media that the Welch Fire Department reported the roof had been blown off the old gymnasium at Welch School. The severe weather comes a week after a tornado outbreak killed four people in Oklahoma .

Severe weather will continue to threaten the region overnight as storms move east. Forecasters at the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center issued dire warnings for a significant tornado outbreak in the central U.S. that could impact millions of people from Texas to the Dakotas.

By 9 p.m., a line of thunderstorm activity stretched from just west of Oklahoma City north through Iowa and into South Dakota, with the weather service continuing to warn of an increasing risk of tornadoes. Tornado warnings were issued in South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Tennessee.

The Storm Prediction Center also issued a tornado watch for eastern Kansas, and western and central Missouri through 4 a.m., with the potential for "a few" tornadoes and damaging winds up to 75 mph. 

Earlier in the afternoon, the center issued a warning for a " particularly dangerous situation " through 11 p.m., following up on its previous "high risk" warning for portions of Oklahoma and Kansas, which included the Oklahoma City metro area . Such warnings are rare , reserved only for the most serious severe weather days.

"We are expecting a serious severe weather outbreak," said meteorologist Jennifer Thompson. The outbreak – with multiple strong, long-tracked tornadoes, large hail, and severe thunderstorm gusts – is forecast "over parts of the south-central Plains from this afternoon through evening," the Storm Prediction Center said.

The center warned of "explosive thunderstorm development" and put the chances for at least two tornadoes at more than 95%. The risk is expected to increase into the evening.

"Intense tornadoes are probable especially as the atmosphere becomes very favorable for tornadoes late this afternoon and continuing through the evening," the center warned. The tornado watch covers an area of Kansas and Oklahoma roughly 250 miles by 300 miles, but the chances for severe weather extend into the Dakotas and east to Kentucky and Tennessee.

Ahead of the storms, McConnell Air Force Base, near Wichita, Kansas, is relocating aircraft to remove them from harm's way, CNN reported. Schools across the danger zone were also altering schedules before the storms hit.

Meanwhile, Oklahoma City Public Schools and several metro-area school districts began canceling all after-school and evening activities, the Associated Press reported.

Tornado warnings, severe weather in Nebraska

In Nebraska, the weather service issued a tornado warning for Nemaha and Otoe counties just before 9:30 p.m.

The weather service warned that severe thunderstorms in the region could affect areas damaged by storms on April 26. Winds as high as 60 mph were being reported in parts of Iowa and Nebraska. 

At least 18 tornadoes occurred across Nebraska and Iowa on April 26, including five EF-3 tornadoes. The storms killed one person and destroyed hundreds of homes and businesses, the weather service said . They were the strongest tornadoes in eastern Nebraska or western Iowa in nearly 10 years.

Hail, tornado reports in Kansas

In Kansas, at least two funnel clouds — meaning they did not touch the ground — have been reported to the weather service office in Topeka, Kansas, one north of Chapman in Dickinson County and one northwest of Moonlight in Geary County. A tornado also had been confirmed by radar near Riley in Ogden County. 

Hail stones up to 4 inches in size were also reported in Moonlight and 2.75 inches in Riley. 

Tornado confirmed in Oklahoma

In Garfield County, Oklahoma, a tornado had been confirmed near Covington, moving east. Flash flooding also was reported in Garfield County, with at least one water rescue near Covington. 

The county's emergency management office reported to the weather service that they'd confirmed buildings destroyed and trees down near the county line between Garfield and Kingfisher counties.

At 9:40 p.m. Central Time, the weather service office in Tulsa said it had received multiple reports of structural damage from a tornado in and near Barnsdall with multiple photos and videos from storm chasers working in the area. Damage also was reported in Bartlesville.

The weather service also warned that a second line of storms could develop later in the evening around the I-44 corridor, which could affect central and southern Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma City metropolitan area, with the most severe activity likely between 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. 

Just before 8 p.m. Central Time, weather service meteorologists in Norman, Oklahoma, reported the storms were increasing in severity and the chance of tornadoes was increasing. Earlier in the evening, the weather service reported that spotters and broadcast media had confirmed a rope tornado about one mile south of Bison, Oklahoma.

In Kingfisher County, a spotter reported uprooted trees, snapped power lines, and damage to a home that might have been tornado-related, the weather service said. The county's emergency management reported a downed power pole and line, where the tornado moved through Lacey. Hail stones up to 2.5 inches in size were reported in the area.

At 6:43 p.m., the weather service said broadcast media had spotted a tornado 4 miles southeast of Okeene. Just after 6 p.m. in the northern part of the state, trained spotters reported a very brief tornado about five miles south of Helena, according to the weather service.

Reports of tornadoes in Tennessee

In Nashville, the weather service reported two radar-confirmed tornadoes, one each in Wilson and DeKalb counties. No significant damage was reported, the weather service added, but storm surveys are planned on Tuesday.

What is a 'high risk'?

A high risk is the highest-tier hazardous weather forecast that the Storm Prediction Center issues.

This forecast is the first "high risk" since two were issued on March 31, 2023, said Matthew Elliott, warning coordination meteorologist for the center.

“We typically average only one or two a year,” Elliott said.

A 'significant' outbreak

“We’re really expecting this to be a significant outbreak of severe weather,” Elliott said, “with some long track, intense tornadoes certainly possible.”

High winds over portions of Colorado and the High Plains Monday morning are also related to the strong and strengthening low-pressure system expected to spawn tornadoes and hail later in the day.

“It’s very similar to what’s helping create the moisture across the Southern Plains that will lead to the severe weather this afternoon and evening,” Elliott said. “That’s why we see this potential for large hail, tornadoes and damaging winds.”

How to be safe during a tornado warning

While there's no such thing as guaranteed safety, the weather service says there are things people can do to increase their chances of surviving a deadly tornado. 

• Protect yourself from flying or falling debris, the single biggest life-threatening hazard.
• Seek shelter in the closest, safest interior or underground room.
• Always avoid windows. Don’t go to the windows or doors to look outside.
• Cover yourself with thick protective coverings, such as a mattress, sleeping bags, and thick blankets or other protective coverings.
• Wear a helmet if you have one to protect your head from debris.

On this date in history

On May 6, 1975, a violent F-4 tornado struck Omaha, Nebraska , killing three and destroying 287 homes. It was the most devastating of 36 tornadoes that occurred during a two-day outbreak.

Contributing: Josh Dulaney, The Oklahoman