Memphis, TN – Dangerous heat and poor air quality will grip much of Tennessee on Wednesday, September 17, as the region continues its late-summer stretch of unseasonably hot weather. Drivers, particularly along Interstate 40, should prepare for hazy conditions that could reduce visibility and affect respiratory health during afternoon travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, temperatures will climb to 94–95 degrees Wednesday under sunny skies, while air quality alerts remain in effect. The combination of stagnant air and rising ozone levels creates risks for children, seniors, and those with asthma or other respiratory issues.
Emergency officials urge residents to limit outdoor activity in the afternoon, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous exercise outdoors. Parents should monitor children playing outside, and workers exposed to the heat should take frequent breaks.
By Thursday, conditions remain mostly sunny with highs still pushing the mid-90s. Relief may arrive Friday when a weak front increases storm chances, especially across western Tennessee. A 20 to 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms extends into the weekend, offering cooler temperatures but the potential for slick roads and delayed travel.
Memphis drivers should also stay alert for pop-up storms Friday and Saturday that could create sudden downpours and minor flooding along busy roadways.
Heat and air quality concerns remain the top threat through midweek, but developing storm systems by Friday could mark the transition toward fall-like conditions. More advisories may follow as weather patterns shift.
Five-Day Forecast for Memphis, TN
- Wednesday: Sunny, high near 94. Low around 70. Air Quality Alert continues.
- Thursday: Mostly sunny, high near 95. Low around 69.
- Friday: 20% chance of storms, high near 93. Low around 70.
- Saturday: 30% chance of showers, high near 90. Low around 70.
- Sunday: 30% chance of storms, high near 89. Low around 69.
