A Frozen Start to February: Clouds and Ice Keep Memphis Shivering
Morning Frost and Frigid Starts
Memphis residents are waking up to a punishing chill this Sunday morning, February 1, 2026. Following a week dominated by a significant winter storm, the city remains locked in a deep freeze. Early morning temperatures have plummeted to a low of 11°F, creating hazardous conditions for anyone venturing out early. While the sky remains relatively clear at daybreak, the primary concern for Memphians is the lingering ice on the ground. Recent sleet and snow have failed to melt completely, and the moisture that did thaw yesterday has refrozen into dangerous black ice on neighborhood streets and sidewalks.
Afternoon Clouds and Limited Thaw
As we move into the afternoon, the sun will offer a slight reprieve, though it will be short-lived. The high for today is projected to reach only 34°F, barely creeping above the freezing mark. Meteorologists expect cloud cover to increase throughout the afternoon hours, dampening the effectiveness of any solar melting. Winds are expected to remain steady from the northwest at approximately 7 mph, adding a slight bite to the air. Despite the overcast sky, there is a 0% chance of new precipitation today, providing a much-needed break from the wintry mix that has plagued the Mid-South over the last several days.
Evening Outlook and the Refreeze Risk
By sunset at 5:28 PM, temperatures will once again begin their rapid descent. For the evening and overnight hours, the mercury is expected to drop back toward a low of 11°F. This cycle of marginal daytime thawing followed by a hard overnight freeze continues to make travel difficult across Shelby County. Residents are encouraged to stay off the roads if possible during the late evening, as any slush created during the 34°F peak will transform back into solid ice by nightfall.
Travel Advisories and School Updates
The persistent icy conditions have already triggered significant scheduling changes for the start of the work week. Local news outlets have confirmed that Memphis-Shelby County Schools, along with suburban districts in Germantown, Collierville, and Bartlett, will remain closed through Monday, February 2, due to the condition of untreated secondary roads. Additionally, the University of Memphis continues to operate under modified campus operations. Travelers are advised to use extreme caution, particularly on bridges, overpasses, and shaded neighborhood roads that have not yet seen the benefit of salt or sunshine.
- Today's High: 34°F
- Today's Low: 11°F
- Precipitation: 0% chance of rain or snow
- Wind: NW at 7 mph
- Conditions: Morning sun giving way to afternoon clouds