City Service Update: Winter Storm Recovery and Public Health Advisories
Official Notice: Memphis Service Status and Health Advisories
As the City of Memphis concludes the final day of January 2026, local government agencies have issued a series of public service announcements regarding infrastructure recovery, utility changes, and public health concerns. Residents are encouraged to review these notices to stay informed on service availability and safety protocols following recent environmental challenges.
Winter Storm Recovery and Road Safety
Following the significant impacts of Winter Storm Fern earlier this week, the Memphis Public Works Department continues to execute its winter weather readiness plan. While the immediate threat of heavy frozen precipitation has passed, city crews remain active treating priority routes and secondary roads where icy patches may persist. Motorists are advised to exercise extreme caution on bridges, overpasses, and shaded neighborhood streets, as low overnight temperatures continue to cause intermittent icing conditions. Public safety officials urge residents to report hazardous road conditions or fallen debris through the city’s official 311 service line.
Public Health Alert: Measles Exposure Update
The Shelby County Health Department (SCHD) has issued a follow-up notice regarding a confirmed case of measles involving an out-of-state resident who traveled through Memphis International Airport. While the initial exposure window occurred earlier this month, health officials remain in a heightened monitoring phase. Symptoms of measles, which include high fever, cough, and a signature red rash, typically appear 7 to 21 days after exposure. Residents who were at the airport during the first week of January and have not been vaccinated (MMR vaccine) are encouraged to contact the SCHD at 901-222-9243 for professional guidance. The department reminds the public not to visit clinics or emergency rooms without calling ahead if they suspect they are symptomatic to avoid further community spread.
MLGW Utility Rate and Service Notice
Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) reminds all customers that the final installment of the multi-year rate adjustment, originally approved by the City Council in 2023, is now fully in effect. Starting with January 2026 billing cycles, a 4% increase has been applied to fund essential infrastructure upgrades, including grid resilience projects and the replacement of aging electrical equipment. Additionally, while MLGW Community Offices were closed on January 29 and 30 due to inclement weather, online account management remains available for all users. The utility has maintained its policy of suspending service disconnections for non-payment during this period of extreme cold to ensure resident safety.
Emergency Warming Center Availability
The City of Memphis, in partnership with the Hospitality Hub, continues to operate emergency warming centers to support vulnerable populations during current low temperatures. The primary facility at First Baptist Church, located at 200 East Parkway North, remains operational. Residents requiring transportation to a warming site are instructed to call 901-486-0939. These centers will remain active until local temperatures rise above freezing for a sustained period, at which point a formal deactivation notice will be issued through official city channels.