Memphis, Tennessee – Evening plans across the Mid-South could be interrupted as strong to severe thunderstorms move in between 8 p.m. Wednesday and 6 a.m. Thursday, threatening drivers along Interstate 40 with wind gusts up to 60 mph and hail as large as ping pong balls.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a Marginal to Slight risk for severe weather covers west Tennessee, eastern Arkansas and north Mississippi tonight. Storms are expected to develop to the southwest and track northeast overnight. Large hail and damaging winds remain the primary hazards, though a tornado cannot be ruled out.
The highest severe risk includes areas near Jonesboro, Dyersburg and Jackson, with Memphis sitting near the edge of the greater threat zone. Travel along I-55, I-40 and U.S. 51 may become hazardous during heavier storms, with sudden visibility drops and strong crosswinds possible. Isolated power outages could occur if stronger wind gusts down tree limbs.
Storms may linger past 6 a.m. Thursday in some locations, potentially impacting the early commute. Emergency managers urge residents to secure loose outdoor items and ensure weather alerts are enabled before going to bed.
Conditions should gradually improve later Thursday morning, but additional advisories or warnings may be issued overnight as storms intensify.
