Memphis, Tennessee – Warming temperatures across the Memphis area are increasing the risk of falling snow and ice slabs from rooftops and overhangs, creating hazardous conditions near buildings and busy walkways.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, recent snowfall and ice accumulation on roofs may begin to slide or fall suddenly as temperatures rise. These falling slabs can be heavy and dangerous, posing a serious injury risk to pedestrians, workers, and anyone standing near building edges.
The greatest concern is in downtown Memphis and commercial areas, where foot traffic is common near structures along major corridors such as Interstate 40, Interstate 55, and Interstate 240, as well as city streets beneath overpasses and parking garages. Ice and snow may fall without warning, even during otherwise calm weather conditions.
The NWS urges residents to use extra caution near buildings, awnings, balconies, and roof overhangs, especially during the late morning and afternoon when temperatures are warmest. Property owners and managers are encouraged to restrict access beneath known problem areas where snow and ice have accumulated.
While roadway travel conditions may continue to improve, hazards from above remain a concern. Falling ice can also strike vehicles parked close to buildings, potentially causing damage or injury when drivers enter or exit.
This hazard is especially relevant for commuters, delivery drivers, downtown workers, students, and pedestrians navigating sidewalks near offices, apartments, and retail buildings.
Residents are advised to remain alert, avoid lingering near building edges, and report dangerous ice buildup to property managers when possible. The risk will gradually decrease as accumulated snow and ice clear from rooftops, but caution remains necessary in the meantime.
Updates and safety information are available through the National Weather Service as conditions continue to evolve.
