Tennessee begins Christmas morning with soft clouds, mild air, and damp ground that hints at bigger changes ahead. In Memphis, the air feels springlike, but that comfort is temporary as a more active winter pattern lines up just in time for post-Christmas travel.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, today stays partly sunny with highs near the mid-70s. Southwest winds remain light, keeping travel smooth across I-40, I-55, and I-240 through the day. Conditions remain calm into Friday and Saturday, with highs holding in the mid-70s and dry roads favoring holiday returns.
That changes Sunday. Clouds thicken by midday, and rain chances rise during the afternoon and evening. Showers become more widespread Sunday night, with gusty winds developing as a cold front pushes through the Mid-South. Drivers should expect wet pavement and reduced visibility during peak evening travel hours.
Behind the rain, temperatures fall fast. By early Monday, readings hover near freezing, and highs struggle to reach the upper 30s. Any lingering moisture on bridges or untreated roads could refreeze, creating isolated slick spots during early commutes. Winds may gust near 25 mph, adding a biting chill for those heading back to work or school.
Monday improves slowly with partial sunshine, but the cold snap holds firm. Overnight lows dip into the lower 20s, bringing frost and freeze concerns across Shelby County and surrounding areas. Winter coats return quickly after a brief taste of warmth.
Plan ahead for Sunday travel, keep rain gear handy, and be ready for winterlike conditions by Monday morning. Meteorologists continue tracking timing shifts, and additional Weather Alerts may be issued as the cold air settles into the Mid-South to close out December.
