Rutherford County, TN - Is winter coming in cold and fierce—or just damp and moody? That’s the question Rutherford County residents are tossing around as fall settles in and the salt-buying season kicks off. Some folks are stocking up like it’s the Blizzard of ’94, grabbing driveway salt, snow shovels, and even chain cleats for their shoes (yes, those are real). Others are rolling their eyes and pointing to forecasts that suggest a milder, wetter winter ahead.

NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center says Middle Tennessee has “equal chances” for normal temperatures and precipitation. Translation? It’s not expected to be colder than usual, but don’t expect a tropical breeze either.

Meteorologist add that while arctic blasts may hit parts of the central and eastern U.S., Tennessee’s southern spot should dodge the worst of it.

Still, don’t get too cozy. The Gulf’s warm waters could stir up severe thunderstorms, and the Old Farmer’s Almanac warns that higher elevations might see more snow. A preliminary outlook from the Country Herald even hints at elevated snow risks in northern Tennessee, though Rutherford County isn’t in the danger zone.

But Bryan Barrett at WGNS’ Rutherford Weather isn’t letting us off the hook. He’s forecasting a few sharp punches of winter weather, and if the last two years are any indication, including what he calls “stupid cold”. Barrett’s tone is part weather watcher, part neighborly guide—he’s not just reading models, he’s translating them into real-life impact.

So what’s the move? Prep smart. Get your heating system checked, stash some salt, and keep an eye on Barrett’s updates. Because in Tennessee, even a “mild” winter can throw a frosty curveball. Click Here for he Full Weather Report.