Tennessee – Moonlight reflects off frozen windshields this morning as Memphis sits in a firm December chill. The air bites early, and the cold sets the tone for a week that turns wet before easing into a calmer weekend.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures dropped near 29 degrees early, creating a freeze across the metro. Drivers should watch for slick patches on bridges and shaded roads. Allow extra braking distance and slow down during the morning drive.
Skies stay sunny today, helping temperatures recover into the low 50s. That warmth improves conditions quickly, but it also sets up a familiar winter concern. Melted frost can refreeze later when temperatures fall again.
Clouds increase tonight as milder air arrives. Wednesday brings a noticeable change, with highs climbing into the mid-50s. A few light showers are possible by late morning or afternoon. Roads may turn damp, especially during busier travel periods.
The main impact arrives Thursday, December 18th. Showers become widespread through the day, with rain likely for most neighborhoods. Winds pick up at times, and brief heavier rain could reduce visibility. Expect slower travel along I-40, I-55, and major surface streets during the afternoon.
Behind the rain, colder air filters back in Thursday night. Temperatures fall toward the upper 20s by early Friday. Any lingering moisture may refreeze, raising the risk for black ice before sunrise. This is a classic flash-freeze setup drivers should not ignore.
Friday turns sunny but colder, with highs near the mid-40s. The weekend looks quieter and brighter. Saturday and Sunday trend mostly sunny, with highs returning near 60 degrees, helpful for holiday errands and early Christmas travel plans.
This warm-to-cold swing is an early sign of winter’s developing pattern across the Mid-South. More changes are likely as December continues.
Feeling the freeze this morning or seeing slick spots on your commute? Tell us what conditions look like where you are.
5-Day Outlook – Memphis, TN
- Today: Sunny, cold start, high near 50°
- Wednesday: Slight shower chance, high near 54°
- Thursday: Rain likely, breezy, high near 61°
- Friday: Sunny, colder, high near 44°
- Saturday: Mostly sunny, milder, high near 60°
