Mid-South – A prolonged stretch of dangerous cold is expected across the Mid-South, with an Extreme Cold Watch issued for much of the region following an already active Cold Weather Advisory this weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect from 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday, with wind chills expected to drop as low as 13 degrees below zero across parts of West Tennessee, East Arkansas, North Mississippi, and southeast Missouri. Areas affected include Memphis, Jonesboro, Dyersburg, Jackson, TN, Clarksdale, Tunica, and Blytheville.
An Extreme Cold Watch takes effect Sunday evening through Tuesday morning, as even colder Arctic air moves in. Wind chills could plunge to 18 degrees below zero, creating life-threatening conditions for anyone outdoors without proper protection. A separate watch covers additional portions of North Mississippi and West Tennessee, where wind chills as low as 8 below zero are possible.
Forecasters warn that exposure to these conditions could quickly lead to hypothermia or frostbite. The extended duration of cold increases risks for vulnerable populations, outdoor workers, and those without reliable heat.
Residents are urged to dress in layers, cover exposed skin, limit time outdoors, and check on elderly neighbors. Pets should be brought indoors, and precautions should be taken to protect pipes and infrastructure as the bitter cold persists into early next week.
