Memphis, TN – Arctic air is surging into the Mid-South early Sunday, bringing rapidly falling temperatures, strong winds, and dangerous wind chill values across parts of Tennessee, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Kentucky.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, temperatures are quickly dropping through the 20s, while north winds gusting over 30 mph are making conditions feel even colder. Wind chill values have already fallen to around 5 degrees near the Kentucky–Missouri border, with similarly harsh conditions spreading southward through the morning.
Current observations show temperatures in the upper 20s to low 30s across the Memphis metro, with colder readings north of the city. Areas including Blytheville, Union City, Jackson, Paris, Corinth, Oxford, Tupelo, and Clarksdale are experiencing bitter conditions as the cold air mass deepens.
Meteorologists warn that prolonged exposure to these temperatures, especially when combined with strong winds, can increase the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, particularly for anyone outdoors without adequate protection.
Residents are urged to bundle up in multiple layers, cover exposed skin, and limit time outdoors whenever possible. Those who must travel should be cautious, as gusty winds can make driving more difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.
The cold blast affects a large portion of the Mid-South region, including areas along the Mississippi River corridor and nearby highways such as I-40, I-55, and I-22, where wind exposure can intensify the cold.
Officials also recommend checking on elderly neighbors, young children, and anyone without reliable heating, as temperatures continue to fall.
