Tennessee — Cool air greets early risers across the Mid-South, but calm skies signal a quiet start to 2026. Streetlights reflect off dry pavement, and breath briefly fogs the air before fading. Temperatures hover near 40 degrees around Memphis, mild for early January and steadily climbing after sunrise.
Sunshine takes control through the morning and afternoon. By midday, temperatures reach the upper 50s, making outdoor plans comfortable. Winds remain light, and visibility stays excellent across I-40, I-55, and Highway 61. For now, travel conditions remain smooth.
Clouds increase tonight as a developing system approaches. Temperatures settle into the mid-40s, keeping roads dry through late evening. The quiet pattern begins to change by Friday.
Showers become more likely Friday afternoon, with rain chances climbing toward 80 percent by evening. Wet pavement may slow traffic during peak travel hours, especially near downtown Memphis and along major interstates. Rain continues into Friday night, though totals appear manageable. Thunder is possible, but severe weather is not expected at this time.
Drivers should plan extra time Friday evening. Reduced visibility and slick roads could develop quickly after sunset. Keep headlights on and avoid sudden braking in heavier showers.
Conditions improve for the weekend. Saturday turns partly sunny, with highs near 50 and a noticeable drop in humidity. Saturday night cools sharply, with lows near freezing in outlying areas. Frost may develop on exposed surfaces.
Sunday stays mostly sunny and calm, with highs near 49. Cooler air lingers, but skies remain bright. By Monday, a warmer trend returns, pushing highs into the lower 60s and signaling a gentle start to the first full workweek of 2026.
Traveling Friday or noticing cooler nights already? Share what conditions look like in your neighborhood.
Five-Day Outlook for Memphis, Tennessee
• New Year’s Day: Sunny and mild, high near 59°F
• Friday: Showers developing, high near 55°F
• Saturday: Partly sunny, cooler, high near 50°F
• Sunday: Mostly sunny, cool, high near 49°F
• Monday: Mostly sunny, warmer, high near 61°F
