NASHVILLE (WATE) – The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency has declared a Level III State of Emergency due to the winter weather predicted to move into the state over the next few days.

TEMA says the weather system may lead to stranded motorists, power outages and people needing shelter. Key TEMA and state agency staff members, including those from the Tennessee Departments of Health, Human Services, Military and Transportation, as well as the Tennessee Highway Patrol, will all be on standby monitoring the situation.

According to TEMA, a Level III State of Emergency means “an event or period when a serious emergency has occurred or the situation is deteriorating rapidly, and public warnings are being issued.”

TEMA has also made contact with people with the American Red Cross, Tennessee State Parks, Tennessee Division of Forestry and Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency.Related:

Regional offices in Jackson, Nashville and Knoxville are making staffing preparations for Regional Coordination Centers. They will be points of contact to assist counties with any needs they report. RCCs are checking inventory of blankets, heated meals and water.

The American Red Cross is putting shelter staff and volunteers on alert.

The winter weather is expected to move into West Tennessee late Thursday night into early Friday morning and progress across the state.