An upper-level disturbance is predicted to cross the Tennessee Valley region this afternoon with the potential to develop strong-to-severe thunderstorms, the National Weather Service in Morristown said.

The main threat from the storms will be damaging straight-line wind gusts.

However, a greater potential for severe storms will arrive Thursday night ahead of a strong cold front, the weather service said.

A strong south wind will develop Thursday afternoon, and, combined with temperatures in the 70s, the conditions are expected to generate strong-to-severe thunderstorms after sunset Thursday evening, the weather service predicts.

Damaging straight-line winds are expected to be the main threat, with a potential for some tornadoes as well.

Since the main threat of severe weather is expected to arrive after dark Thursday night, residents are urged to maintain a high level of awareness, the National Weather Service stated.