Catons Chapel/Richardsons Cove Volunteer Fire Department

04/13/2026

Fire Danger: Monday April 13, 2026

Due to predicted winds, low RH, and the lack of precipitation in some areas, today’s Fire Danger is a HIGH, burn permits will be OFF today. Please refrain from any outdoor burning.

03/29/2026

Special Weather Statement issued March 28 at 8:52PM EDT by NWS Morristown TN

March 28, 2026 at 20:54:31 EDT
Fire weather concerns exist again for midday Sunday into the evening due to a very dry airmass and breezy south to southwest winds. Relative humidity values are expected to drop into the teens and lower 20s across the whole region. Winds will gust up to 25 mph. Residents and visitors are urged to properly dispose of cigarette butts, matches, and any other flammable items in appropriate containers. Additionally, exercise caution if operating any equipment that could create sparks and keep vehicles off of dry grass. Most dry grasses, dead leaves, and other tree litter could easily ignite and spread fire quickly. Lastly, remember to obey local burn bans.

03/23/2026

Fire Danger Update | March 23, 2026 | 8:00 AM

HIGH Fire Danger: Public Urged to Refrain from Burning

Authorities are urging residents and visitors to refrain from burning debris today, as the Tennessee Division of Forestry has issued a HIGH fire danger for the area.

𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐈𝐧𝐟𝐨𝐫𝐦𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧:
- No burn permits will be issued in Sevier County today. Residents within city limits should contact their local fire department for burn permit information.
- Refrain from burning debris. Low humidity and increased winds can cause fires to spread rapidly, even under controlled conditions.
- Burning without a valid permit between October 15 and May 15 is a violation of state law and may result in penalties.

All residents and visitors are encouraged to stay informed and monitor local emergency messaging. Follow Sevier County Fire & Rescue for updates.

For additional information, visit: https://shorturl.at/mpIn1

01/24/2026

With the upcoming wintry & icy conditions heading our way, here are a few ice storm safety tips. The main tip we can share is to please stay off the roadways if you can! ❄️

Stay safe, stay warm! If you need immediate emergency care please dial 911.

01/21/2026

‼️WINTER STORM UPDATE‼️

Winter Storm Watch issued January 21 at 12:27PM EST until January 25 at 7:00PM EST by NWS Morristown TN

January 21, 2026 at 12:28:30 EST
* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 10 inches will be possible, primarily north of Knoxville with the heaviest accumulations near the Kentucky border and far western Virginia. In addition to the snow, ice accumulations up to one half of an inch will be possible, primarily south of Knoxville. The greatest ice accumulations will likely be south of a line from Crossville to Tellico Plains, especially the southern Cumberland Plateau. *

ADDITIONAL DETAILS...This is a complicated forecast and details regarding the location of heaviest snowfall and freezing rain totals remain uncertain. Significant changes could occur in the coming days so please continue to monitor future forecasts

01/21/2026

From the National Weather Service Jan 20, 2026

We are monitoring A significant winter storm that appears to be likely for the East Tennessee, southwest Virginia, and southwest North Carolina region. Significant impacts are increasing in probability across the area. What Has Changed: • Confidence in a high impact event has increased to medium to high confidence. Confidence: • Medium confidence in overall impacts. • Low confidence in where the ice vs snow line sets up over the weekend. • High confidence in prolonged cold weather after the winter storm into next week

Additional information and updates will be shared when they are received.

01/20/2026

❄️Winter Weather Awareness❄️

Sevier County EMA is aware of and closely monitoring the potential for significant winter weather that could impact our area this weekend. This system may bring snow, ice, or a combination of both.

We are actively monitoring forecasts, evaluating conditions, and coordinating with our partners to determine what actions may be needed as the situation develops. We encourage all residents and visitors to do the same.

According to the US National Weather Service Morristown Tennessee, there is a possibility for impactful wintry precipitation across portions of the region. At this time, there remains significant uncertainty regarding the exact track and intensity of the system, including where snow, ice, or mixed precipitation may occur. Forecast updates are expected throughout the week.

How should you start preparing now?
• Check your supply of food and drinking water
• Make sure you have enough prescription medications and medical supplies
• Review your winter weather kit, including flashlights, batteries, blankets, and a phone charger
• Fuel vehicles ahead of time and check tires and windshield wipers
• Plan for limited travel, especially those in ‘shaded spots and higher tops’, areas of higher elevation and less-traveled secondary roads
• Be prepared for possible power outages caused by downed trees or power lines
• If using alternative heating sources, ensure they are used safely with proper ventilation

Hazardous travel may be possible due to snow and ice-covered roadways. Residents and visitors are encouraged to prepare now rather than wait until conditions worsen.

Reminder: Never run generators, grills, or fuel-powered equipment inside homes, garages, or enclosed spaces. If using kerosene or other combustible heating sources, follow manufacturer instructions and ensure adequate ventilation.

All residents and visitors are encouraged to sign up to receive CodeRED Emergency Alerts. You can register here: https://shorturl.at/Mu8xr

Please continue to follow updates from the US National Weather Service Morristown Tennessee and Sevier County EMA as forecasts become clearer through the week.

01/16/2026

A message from the National Weather Service for Today - Friday January 16, 2026

A Cold front will swing across region bringing increasing precipitation chances late tonight through Saturday morning. Precipitation is expected to be rain or a rain snow mix at onset, but periods of light to moderate snow showers will lead to a quick 1 to 2 inches of accumulation as temperatures approach near or just below freezing. Most likely locations to receive this light accumulation will be elevations between 2000 and 4000 feet. Highest mountain peaks could see isolated totals near 3 inches.

Any updates will be posted as soon as possible. Please stay safe and warm!

01/14/2026

As winter weather moves into the area tonight and into tomorrow, here are some cold weather safety tips! ❄️

The National Weather Service continues to monitor weather conditions and patterns, any updates will be posted here.

Everyone please stay warm and safe!

01/13/2026

12/29/2025

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Blount County Sheriffs Office

December 28, 2025

Blount County deputy killed in car crash while on duty

Blount County, Tennessee – Blount County Sheriff James Lee Berrong is saddened to announce that BCSO Deputy Justin Mowery was killed in the line of duty in a car crash while working his patrol shift late this afternoon.

“I am heartbroken. This is devastating for his family, his shift-mates, this agency, and our community,” Sheriff Berrong said. “We appreciate the swift response of the Tennessee Highway Patrol, and together we are working to determine how the accident happened. We are also thankful for the response from all of the surrounding law enforcement agencies as well as the offers for assistance from agencies across the state.”

Deputy Mowery was 30 years old. After serving as a security officer at University of Tennessee Medical Center, he pursued his desire to become a deputy sheriff with Blount County. He began his career at the BCSO in May 2020 and attended the BCSO Regional Training Academy, graduating from Class 021 in October 2020. He was assigned to evening shift as a Patrol Deputy. In December 2021, he earned a coveted spot on the Sheriff’s SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team and continued to serve until his death.

“Please pray for Deputy Mowery’s family, and pray for our deputies,” Sheriff Berrong said.

12/28/2025

CCRCVFD Department training, October 2025.