Memphis, Tennessee – A dangerous and rapidly changing weather day is expected across the Mid-South as strong winds, severe thunderstorms, and freezing temperatures arrive in quick succession.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, a Wind Advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. Sunday until 7 a.m. Monday, with sustained winds over 25 mph and gusts above 40 mph possible across west Tennessee, north Mississippi, east Arkansas, and the Missouri Bootheel. Residents are urged to secure loose outdoor items and use caution if driving high-profile vehicles.
Attention then turns to a line of strong to severe thunderstorms expected to move west to east across the region this afternoon and evening.
Forecasters say storms could arrive as early as 2 p.m., with the most likely window between 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. for areas near Jonesboro, Forrest City, and Memphis. The line will continue east through Jackson, Tennessee between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m., and into northeast Mississippi and west Tennessee between 8 p.m. and 11 p.m.
The Storm Prediction Center has placed much of the Mid-South in an Enhanced Risk (Level 3 of 5) for severe weather. The primary concern is damaging wind gusts that could reach up to 80 mph, though golf ball-size hail and a few tornadoes – some potentially strong – are also possible.
Behind the storms, a sharp blast of cold air will move in overnight. A Freeze Warning is in effect for Monday morning, with temperatures dropping to 32°F or colder, which could damage sensitive plants. Another Freeze Watch is in place for Tuesday morning, signaling the potential for another round of freezing temperatures.
Residents are encouraged to have multiple ways to receive weather warnings and be ready to take shelter quickly if severe storms develop.
