FOX 17 News was in Code Red Weather alert for a Tornado Watch Friday night until 1 a.m.
The alert has expired after tornadoes ripped through the Midstate, claiming at least nine lives.
There was a level 4 threat issued for Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky in response to the severe weather threat, with the highest threat west of I-65.
According to TEMA (Tennessee Emergency Management Agency) , a level four threat means the agency may increase their manpower for the 24-hour watch staff in the Operations Center to be able to watch the situation more heavily. For more information on the different state-level emergency declarations, click here.
In the meantime, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency Friday for the potential of severe weather in Kentucky Friday evening. According to his office, there is a high chance of long-track, violent tornadoes in that area, especially the Jackson Purchase area.
He issued the following statement, noting the forecast is the "worst" he's experienced as Governor.
If you are in Western Kentucky, you need to be in a safe shelter by 5 p.m. Central Time,” said Gov. Beshear. “This is the worst forecast I’ve seen as Governor. I am declaring a state of emergency so that we can be prepared. We are taking this very seriously and we need you to take this seriously, too. Please be prepared. Let’s do everything possible to keep everyone safe.”
For the video of Beshear's full message on the State of Emergency, click this link to his YouTube video here.
The highest threat was damaging wind and a few strong tornadoes. A few gusts up to 70 mph were possible. Timing looked to be 6 p.m. to midnight, but storms could were predicted to linger a few extra overnight hours.
Additionally, the Opening Night for the Nashville Sounds has been postponed, and made up as part of their doubleheader on Saturday, April 1. See their tweet below for more.
Stick with FOX 17 News for your Code Red weather alerts.
Download the FREE FOX 17 Code Red Weather App for your iPhone, iPad or Android.