Memphis, Tennessee – Strong winds sweeping across the Mid-South Sunday will make travel difficult before temperatures plunge overnight, bringing a widespread freeze across the region early Monday.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a Wind Advisory remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday for parts of West Tennessee, East Arkansas, North Mississippi, and southeast Missouri. Southwest winds between 20 and 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected through the day and overnight, strong enough to blow around unsecured objects and down tree limbs.
Cities including Memphis, Jonesboro, Dyersburg, Blytheville, Southaven, Oxford, and Jackson, Tennessee may experience the strongest gusts Sunday afternoon and evening. Drivers on Interstate 40, Interstate 55, and U.S. Highway 61 should use caution, especially in high-profile vehicles.
Temperatures will drop quickly overnight. A Freeze Warning is in effect from 4 a.m. to noon Monday, when lows could fall to around 27°F across much of the region, cold enough to damage early spring plants and exposed plumbing.
Another surge of cold air could follow. A Freeze Watch remains in effect Monday night through Tuesday morning, when temperatures may fall as low as 19°F in some locations.
Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items Sunday and protect plants and pipes ahead of the freeze early Monday.
