Public Notice: Winter Weather Service Closures and Municipal Meeting Schedules

Emergency Closures: Schools and Solid Waste

Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) and district offices will remain closed on Thursday, February 5, 2026. Official safety assessments conducted across school campuses indicate that while conditions on main roads are improving, many residential streets, sidewalks, and bus stop areas remain impassable. These conditions create ongoing safety concerns for student transportation and school bus travel. All school-sponsored activities, including athletic practices and events, are officially canceled for the day.

The City of Memphis Solid Waste Division has also extended its pause on trash collection services through Thursday morning. City officials stated that ice accumulation on medians and in shaded alleys continues to pose significant hazards for sanitation employees and equipment. Residents in surrounding municipalities should note modified schedules: Collierville crews plan to collect Monday and Tuesday routes today, while Germantown service is currently operating with a one-day delay for all routes. Residents are urged to monitor the Memphis Curbside Collection app for the latest updates on service resumption.

Utility Advisory: High February Bills Expected

Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) has issued a formal advisory warning customers of potential "sticker shock" regarding their February statements. Following a prolonged period of extreme cold in January, MLGW recorded some of the highest energy consumption levels in years as home heating systems worked harder to maintain temperatures. Utility officials clarified that the expected increase is due to high usage rather than rate changes. Customers struggling with these balances are encouraged to contact the Shelby County Community Services Agency to inquire about available Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds.

City Meeting Schedule for February 5

Despite the weather-related school closures, the following public meetings remain on the official municipal calendar for today:

• CRA Board of Directors: 8:30 a.m. at the Community Redevelopment Agency Office, 850 N. Manassas St.
• Transportation Commission: 11:00 a.m. at 125 North Main Street, Conference Room 4A.

Public Safety and Health Updates

In a recent state-level address, it was confirmed that Memphis is designated to receive $80 million in new public safety grants to bolster local crime prevention and support the Memphis Safe Task Force. This announcement coincides with recent task force reports showing a 55 percent drop in regional crime over the last month. Additionally, the Shelby County Health Department is highlighting National Children's Dental Health this week, reminding residents that preventative oral health services are essential for youth development and remain available at clinical locations as weather conditions permit.