Official City Notice: Winter Storm Fern Emergency Protocols and Service Updates

Public Health: Weekend Clinic and Vaccination Cancellations

The Shelby County Health Department has officially announced the cancellation of all clinical services and community outreach events scheduled for Saturday, January 24, 2026. This suspension includes the regular second and fourth Saturday clinic hours at the 814 Jefferson Avenue facility. Furthermore, planned flu vaccination outreach efforts at the Temple of Deliverance Church of God in Christ and Middle Baptist Church in Whitehaven have been postponed due to hazardous conditions. Interim Health Director Dr. Bruce Randolph has urged residents to prioritize safety and prepare for extreme cold and winter precipitation as the department coordinates with emergency management agencies.

Emergency Services: Winter Weather Activation and Warming Centers

In response to the arrival of Winter Storm Fern, the City of Memphis has activated its comprehensive winter weather readiness plan. Officials are warning the public to prepare for significant ice accumulation, which can cause prolonged power outages and disruptions to water services. To assist those in need of shelter, a warming center is currently operational at First Baptist Church, located at 200 East Parkway North. Residents requiring transportation to the warming center may call 901-486-0939 for assistance. While Public Works crews have pre-treated over 300 miles of priority routes with approximately 25,000 gallons of brine, residents are strongly encouraged to stay off the roads as ice accumulation poses a severe risk to motorists and infrastructure.

MLGW: Public Utility Alerts and Infrastructure Work

Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) has issued several public service announcements regarding service reliability and ongoing projects during this weather event:

• Storm Preparedness: MLGW advises households to secure several gallons of drinking water per person and fill bathtubs or large buckets to ensure continued toilet functionality if water pressure is lost.
• Rate Adjustment: Customers are reminded that the final 4% installment of the previously approved multi-year rate adjustment has taken effect for January 2026 billing cycles. These funds are designated for essential grid resilience and infrastructure upgrades.
• Roadwork Alert: Gas main installation continues on South Front Street. Temporary lane closures will remain in effect through February 6, with work crews active daily between 7:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.

City Council: Upcoming Legislative Meetings

The Memphis City Council is scheduled to hold its next regular meeting on Tuesday, January 27, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. The agenda includes a resolution recognizing Gina Sweat for her service to the Memphis Fire Department and a public hearing regarding a planned development on Kirby Gate. Residents may access the full agenda and watch the proceedings through the city's official online streaming platforms.