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MORRISTOWN — The National Weather Service in Morristown has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook for portions of east Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and southwest North Carolina, warning of high winds, severe storms, and potential flash flooding.

Southerly winds are expected to increase Friday afternoon and evening, with downslope winds in the mountains and foothills possibly reaching gusts of up to 70 mph overnight, according to the NWS.

A few strong to severe storms may develop late Friday night, primarily along and west of Interstate 75. If storms maintain strength, gusty winds will be the primary threat.

By Saturday, high winds will persist in the mountains and foothills, with gusts up to 80 mph expected by the evening. The extreme wind conditions will raise concerns for the spread of ongoing wildfires in the region.

A severe weather outbreak is likely Saturday into Saturday night across portions of the eastern United States. In East Tennessee, the greatest threat will be along the Cumberland Plateau, southeast Tennessee, and southwest North Carolina. Widespread and significant damaging winds are likely, with the potential for tornadoes and large hail.

With multiple rounds of storms, flash flooding could become a concern by Saturday evening, especially west of Interstate 75.