Tennessee – Gray skies and damp pavement set the tone this morning as winter officially arrives with a softer edge than usual. The air feels cool but not harsh, and winds brush across West Tennessee as clouds thicken. While no immediate cold shock is in place, conditions are already shifting in ways that could affect travel and daily plans over the next several days.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, light rain develops later Monday and becomes more widespread into Monday night. Rain chances climb toward 60 to 70 percent, with highs rising into the lower 60s Monday and near 70 by Tuesday. Roads across Shelby County, including I-40 and I-240, could turn slick during heavier showers, especially during evening commutes.
To be fair, temperatures stay well above freezing locally. Still, this system matters. A warm, wet setup across the Mid-South is part of a larger winter pattern producing snow, ice, and flooding risks elsewhere. As colder air presses south later this week, even a modest cool-down after rain can raise concerns for patchy slick spots at night.
By Wednesday, clouds thin and travel increases ahead of Christmas. Roads may dry, but drivers should remain alert during early mornings and after sunset, when temperatures fall fastest. Models hint at a broader winter pattern beyond Christmas, with colder air lurking north of Tennessee.
For now, keep umbrellas and patience handy, allow extra travel time Monday and Tuesday, and monitor updates if holiday travel is planned. Winter may be starting quietly here, but it rarely stays that way long.
Five-Day Outlook for Memphis, Tennessee
Today: Partly sunny, highs near 55.
Monday: Rain developing, highs near 62.
Tuesday: Showers likely early, warmer, highs near 68.
Wednesday: Drying out, decreasing clouds, highs near 72.
Christmas Day: Partly sunny and mild, highs near 73.
