Memphis braces for severe weather, prioritizes safety measures
Apr 02, 2025
MEMPHIS, Tenn. -- The City of Memphis is preparing for the severe weather over the next couple of days this week.
WREG weather experts say the weather is likely to bring large hail, damaging winds, tornadoes, and hail across the Mid-South.
The City of Memphis said their primary goal during a
ny severe weather event is to protect the lives and property of our residents and visitors.
LIVE: Severe weather Wednesday; flooding likely to follow
The National Weather Service forecasts unstable and unpredictable conditions that may result in flash flooding, downed trees, and power outages.
Tree down at David Street and Fizer Road (Photo by WREG)
In response, the City says it activated its Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to coordinate department preparedness and response efforts.
The City said in a press release that public work crews are mobilized across the city, with drain maintenance teams inspecting and clearing storm drains and inlets to reduce the risk of flooding.
"Special attention is being given to known flood-prone hotspots to help keep roadways passable," said the City of Memphis. "Street Maintenance teams are also prepared to quickly respond to reports of downed trees and other hazards blocking roads to ensure emergency services can reach those in need."
Central High School, surrounding area without power: MLGW
According to the MLGW power outage map, 6627 customers are currently without power.
They say response teams are preparing for expected extreme weather, but they also need the community's help to stay safe and reduce risk.
The City of Memphis said this is what you can do to help:
Keep trash bags, yard waste, and bins off the curb and out of gutters to prevent inadvertently clogging drains.
Clear storm drains and gutters near your home to lower your risk of property flooding.
Avoid driving through standing water or near downed trees and power lines; turn around – don’t drown.
Report any blocked drains, street flooding, or fallen trees by calling 311 or using the Memphis 311 app.
If you use generator power, use only in well-ventilated outdoor areas, at least 30ft from homes or structures.
In case of after-hours emergencies, contact OEM at 901-357-0100.
To report power outages, call MLGW’s Electrical Outage Hotline at 901-544-6500.
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