Weekend storms pave way for freezing temps
Jan 02, 2025
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- A weak cold front snuck through the Mid-South overnight and temperatures are expected to continue falling over the weekend.
Highs on Friday will be in the upper 40s, and it will be chilly tonight and Saturday. Cold rain is still expected for Sunday, with a weather system we’ve been watching all week long.
Saturday will start sunny, but clouds will be on the increase in the afternoon. Temperatures will be in the 20s to start, with afternoon highs in the lower to mid-40s.
Sunday will start windy and warm with highs climbing to near 60 before the rain arrives. Sunday afternoon a line of strong storms will move across the Mid-South from between 2 and 4 p.m.
There is a slight risk for severe weather as this line crosses the river, high winds and heavy rain will be possible, so download the WREG weather app, and stay alert to rapidly changing conditions.
We’re watching the much colder air approaching the area for most of next week, but we are also watching for the possibility of frozen precipitation as well, most of which will be to our north.
Areas of rain will be moving through off and on, along with gusty south winds. Those winds will turn northerly late Sunday evening and temperatures will drop rapidly into the 20s.
It's possible some flurries get mixed in late Sunday night as the storm departs. While we don't anticipate any meaningful frozen precipitation, any wet spots left on the roads Sunday night may refreeze by early Monday. It shouldn't be a widespread issue, but something to be mindful of.
It’s an area we will keep an eye on, to determine the impact it may have on the Mid-South for late Sunday night and early Monday morning.
With gusty winds on Monday, out-the-door wind chill values in the morning will be in the teens so bundle up.
Next week is all about the cold. Expect temperatures to be running close to 20 degrees below normal with highs in the 30s and lows in the teens/20s every day. Stay alert to rapidly changing conditions.
Check the latest forecasts from WREG Weather
It is always a good idea to prepare for frigid temperatures before they arrive. If you or someone you know needs warm clothing or food, click here to find resources available to you across Memphis.
Around this time last year, WREG spoke with Michael Claunch with Solace Services, a plumbing, heating, and air company in Memphis.
He recommended that when freezing temperatures arrive, leave the water in your faucets at a steady steam, not just a drip, to prevent your pipes from bursting. You can also leave your cabinets open overnight to allow the heat from your home to flow around pipes.
How you can prepare your home for winter weather
Claunch also says to make sure to disconnect your garden hose and cover your outside water spigot with a cover outside your home.
If your pipes freeze, turn off the main valve inside your house, if possible, and call Memphis Light Gas and Water emergency contact number at 528-4465.
Experts say it is also important to check your battery, engine, and tires on your car. Those three things often give drivers issues during the winter.