MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for a broad swath of West Tennessee, where forecasters warn that strong to severe storms may develop through late Tuesday evening. The watch, issued by the National Weather Service Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma, remains in effect until 10 p.m. CST and covers eight counties: Benton, Carroll, Dyer, Gibson, Henry, Lake, Obion and Weakley.
Meteorologists say the atmosphere across the Mid-South is primed for thunderstorm development as a cold front sweeps eastward into a warm, moist air mass. The combination of increasing wind shear and instability could allow storms to intensify quickly, producing hazards that include large hail, potentially up to two inches in diameter, damaging wind gusts possibly reaching 65 mph, and a couple of tornadoes.
While not every community within the watch area will experience severe weather, officials emphasize that any storm that becomes organized could pose a significant risk. “This is the type of setup where isolated storms can quickly become strong,” forecasters at the NWS Memphis office said. “Residents should have multiple ways to receive warnings throughout the evening.”
The watch includes both rural and more populated parts of West Tennessee, including areas along the Mississippi River and communities near the Kentucky border. Local emergency managers urge residents to remain weather-aware, especially those traveling during the evening commute or participating in outdoor activities.
The storms are expected to move through the region in several clusters, with the potential for rapid changes in weather conditions. Heavy downpours may also accompany stronger storms, reducing visibility and creating localized travel hazards.
The watch does not guarantee severe thunderstorms will occur, but it signals that atmospheric conditions are favorable. Forecasters advise residents to stay alert for updates from the National Weather Service and to seek shelter immediately if a warning is issued.
