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⛈️ Learning to weather the storm
If you can hear thunder, lightning is close enough to strike you. | Photo submitted by reader Tarah K.
If you didn’t already know, it’s Severe Weather Awareness Week in Tennessee. Each day has been focused on different topics, including storm prep, flooding, lightning, and tornado safety. According to the National Weather Service, Hamilton County saw 27 tornadoes between 1950 and 2024. Today’s topic is severe thunderstorm safety.
What’s a severe thunderstorm?
A storm is considered a severe thunderstorm if it’s capable of producing hail that’s an inch or larger, or has wind gusts over 58 miles per hour. Hail that size and wind that strong can cause widespread damage to homes, vehicles, and power lines.
Get prepared
Next Thursday, Feb. 26 from 4 to 6 p.m., the public is invited to Storm Safety Day at The Commons in Collegedale. The free, family-friendly event will feature safety demonstrations, a Q&A with a storm expert, and help from Hamilton County emergency officials with programming weather radios.
Can’t make it? Check out Hamilton County’s tips and reminders that could keep you safe next time severe weather strikes.
Asked
Asked
What is a “bolt from the blue”?
A. Lightning that strikes during daylight B. Lightning that hits water C. Lightning that strikes far from a storm cloud D. Other
This’ll have you saying oui oui. French bakery Oui Oui Boulangerie is hoping to open its doors in Chattanooga’s Southside on Monday, Feb. 23. Prepare your taste buds for the bakery’s fresh baguettes, croissants, and pastries and keep an eye on its Instagram page for updates.
Festival
The Pop-up Project’s inaugural B.L.A.C. Fest kicks off tomorrow, Feb. 20 and runs through Sunday, Feb. 22, celebrating Black artistry through dance, art, film, and conversation. Events will happen at two separate venues, so check the full schedule and grab tickets before you go.
Outdoors
Hamilton County Parks and Recreation is inviting the public to help name the new playscape at Enterprise South Nature Park. Submit your idea and a short explanation by Monday, Feb. 23 and the winning name — announced Friday, Feb. 27 — will be featured on official park signage. (The Pulse)
Sports
Love watching the World Cup? There’s a local push for fans to speak up so more spots around town will host watch parties this summer. Take this survey to share where you’d like to watch, who you’re cheering for, and what would make it the ultimate watch party.
Biz
Chattanooga entrepreneurs, this is for you. The Better Business Bureau is launching a free, 12-week Small Business Accelerator starting Thursday, April 9. The program will offer mentoring, training, and resources to eligible businesses that have been open for at least six months. Join the waitlist.
Talk
Dr. Mathew Knowles is coming to UTC for a fireside chat next Friday, Feb. 27 at 6:30 p.m. Recognize the name? Being Beyoncé’s dad is just part of his story. The music executive and former Moc will share insights on leadership, education, and entrepreneurship. Tickets appear to be sold out, though availability could change.
Play
🎲 Are you looking for our Games page? You can find it here. Thanks to all of our readers who let us know you’re enjoying this page — our team is continuing to work on even more ways to play in the future.
Wellness
You don’t need to hit a breaking point to start therapy. If you’re replaying conversations or overthinking decisions, Octave Therapy can match you with a vetted, fully licensed therapist. Octave is in-network with many major plans + the average session cost is $28 out of pocket. Find your in-network therapist today.*
Category
Sports
Opening Week at Erlanger Park
This rendering might be a pretty accurate depiction of Opening Day at Erlanger Park. | Renderings via New City Properties
Have you grabbed your tickets yet?Single-game tickets are on sale for Opening Week at the Chattanooga Lookouts’ new stadium, and reserved seats for Opening Day have already sold out. Pro tip: Space is still available on the berm for $9 a person.
Opening Week runs Tuesday, April 14 through Sunday, April 19, with the Lookouts taking on the Montgomery Biscuits. The team released its promotional schedule for the week. Here’s what fans can expect:
Tuesday, April 14 | Clear bag + magnet giveaway
Wednesday, April 15 | Jackie Robinson Day
Thursday, April 16 | Thirsty Thursday drink specials
Got any plans for Saturday, Nov. 7? That’s when the Mocs take on the Mercer Bears for UTC’s Homecoming game. And if one game isn’t enough, there are five home matchups this season — grab season tickets and catch them all at Finley Stadium.