Bracing for the Big Freeze: Memphis Shivers in the Wake of Winter Storm Fern

Memphis Faces Dangerous Cold Following Weekend Storm

Memphis residents are waking up to a city transformed into a deep freeze this Monday, January 26, 2026. Following the heavy impact of Winter Storm Fern, which brought a mix of ice pellets and snow across the Mid-South over the weekend, the primary threat has shifted from precipitation to life-threatening cold. While the clouds are expected to clear, the record-breaking low temperatures have prompted widespread closures and travel warnings across the region.

Morning Forecast: A Brutal Start

The morning hours will be the most hazardous for those venturing outside. Temperatures are starting at a staggering low of 0°F, with some suburban areas reporting dips as far as -2°F. With the residual moisture from the weekend's storm still on the ground, black ice remains a significant concern for commuters. The National Weather Service has highlighted a bitter cold warning, urging residents to protect the 'four Ps': people, pets, pipes, and plants. Wind chills are expected to make the air feel significantly colder than the actual temperature through the mid-morning hours.

Afternoon and Evening Predictions

Despite the emergence of sunny skies in the afternoon, there will be little relief from the chill. Highs are only projected to reach a maximum of 21°F to 23°F, well below the historical average for late January. The sun may assist in some sublimation of the ice, but the air temperature will remain firmly below freezing. As the sun sets, the mercury will plunge once more, returning to the single digits by 8:00 PM. Mist and freezing fog are possible late in the evening as the ground remains saturated and frozen.

Significant Impact and School Closures

The severity of the cold and the hazardous road conditions have led to an extensive list of closures for Monday, January 26. Lead officials across the Mid-South have prioritized safety, resulting in the following school status updates:

• Bartlett City Schools: Closed
• Collierville Public Schools: Closed
• DeSoto County Schools: Closed
• Catholic Diocese of Memphis Schools: Closed
• Christian Brothers University: Campus closed; all classes moved to virtual learning
• Briarcrest Christian School and Fayette Academy: Closed

Authorities continue to advise residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary, as the extreme cold can cause rapid vehicle failure and increases the risk of hypothermia for anyone stranded.