Tennessee – Dark clouds gather over the Mississippi River this morning as warm spring air spreads across the Mid-South. The atmosphere already feels heavy, and scattered showers may begin developing before midday around Memphis.
Temperatures climb toward 75°F this afternoon, creating unstable conditions across western Tennessee. Wet pavement and thickening clouds may slow travel along Interstate 40, Interstate 55, and U.S. 78, especially during afternoon commutes.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, showers and thunderstorms could begin forming before mid-afternoon. Rain chances increase to around 80 percent through the evening, with isolated thunderstorms producing lightning and brief downpours. Rainfall amounts remain light in most areas but may briefly intensify within stronger cells.
Clouds linger into the evening as the humid air mass holds over the region. A few thunderstorms could redevelop later tonight while temperatures stay mild near 65°F.
Storm chances ease slightly Tuesday, though scattered showers remain possible. Highs climb near 80°F, pushing temperatures well above early-March averages across Tennessee, northern Mississippi, and eastern Arkansas.
Meteorologists are closely tracking a stronger system arriving Wednesday. Rain chances surge to 90 percent, and thunderstorms could produce gusty winds up to 30 mph across the Memphis metro. Heavy bursts of rain may briefly reduce visibility for drivers crossing the Mississippi River bridges and moving along I-240 during peak travel periods.
Plan extra travel time if storms develop during the afternoon. Keep phones charged and monitor alerts as conditions change quickly across the Mid-South.
Cooler, drier air moves in after the system passes. Sunshine returns Thursday with highs near 59°F, offering a quiet break after the midweek storm pattern.
Spring warmth quickly returns heading toward the weekend as the region moves closer to the March 20 start of the new season.
Five Day Outlook for Memphis, Tennessee
Monday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High 75°F.
Monday Night: Chance of storms, mostly cloudy. Low 65°F.
Tuesday: Slight chance of storms, mostly cloudy. High 80°F.
Wednesday: Showers and thunderstorms likely. High 75°F.
Thursday: Sunny and cooler. High 59°F.
