Memphis, Tennessee – Dangerous cold is tightening its grip across West Tennessee and the Mid-South, with life-threatening wind chills expected to linger through Tuesday morning, creating serious risks for anyone exposed outdoors for even short periods.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, an Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect until noon Tuesday for much of West Tennessee, including Shelby, Tipton, Haywood, Madison, Dyer, and Lauderdale counties. Wind chills are expected to plunge as low as 15 below zero, with the coldest conditions occurring overnight and during the early morning hours.
Statewide, the extreme cold stretches beyond Memphis into rural and urban communities alike, impacting travel, utilities, and vulnerable populations. In Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown, Collierville, Millington, and Arlington, residents are urged to limit time outside and check heating systems as demand remains high. In areas such as Dyersburg, Covington, Brownsville, Jackson, and Ripley, the bitter cold may strain pipes and increase the risk of power disruptions.
Emergency managers stress that frostbite can develop on exposed skin in minutes at these temperatures. Hypothermia remains a serious concern, especially for those without adequate heat. Residents are urged to dress in layers, cover hands and faces, and keep pets indoors. Portable heaters should be used with caution, and grills or generators must never be operated inside homes or garages.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve Tuesday afternoon, though officials warn additional cold weather advisories could follow if temperatures remain dangerously low. The Extreme Cold Warning remains in effect through Tuesday morning.
