Memphis, TN – The Mid-South region is heading into a warm and unusually calm stretch of weather from December 18–24, with NOAA’s long-range outlook showing above-normal temperatures and below-normal precipitation across Tennessee, northern Mississippi, eastern Arkansas, and western Kentucky. This setup supports smooth holiday travel with minimal weather hazards leading into Christmas Eve.
According to NOAA, temperatures will run 10 to 18 degrees above normal, putting much of the region into the mid-60s to low 70s during afternoon hours. Memphis, Jackson, Tupelo, West Memphis, and Jonesboro may all experience some of the warmest December readings in recent years.
The below-normal precipitation signal means organized rain systems will be limited. A weak upper disturbance may bring spotty drizzle or low clouds early in the period—especially December 19–20 across the Mississippi Delta and Tennessee River Valley—but any rainfall will be light and short-lived.
Across western Tennessee, including Memphis, Jackson, and the I-40 corridor, warm days and mild nights dominate. Morning fog may form along river bottoms but is expected to dissipate quickly.
In northern Mississippi, including Tupelo, Oxford, and Columbus, the pattern remains quiet with highs in the upper 60s to low 70s and very little chance of measurable rain. Humidity fractions increase slightly late in the week, but widespread showers remain unlikely.
Eastern Arkansas—including Jonesboro, Blytheville, and West Memphis—will see similarly warm and dry conditions, with occasional breezy afternoons and abundant sunshine.
The Purchase Region of western Kentucky—including Paducah and Murray—remains mild with highs in the 60s and limited cloud cover heading into Christmas Eve.
Major travel routes—including I-40, I-55, U.S. 51, I-22, and the I-69 corridor—are expected to remain dry, stable, and largely weather-free, aside from patchy fog during early morning hours.
