Roads Remain Icy as MATA Activates Limited Sunday Snow Routes

Winter Storm Fern Aftermath: Treacherous Conditions Persist

As Memphis enters Sunday, February 1, 2026, the aftermath of Winter Storm Fern continues to dictate travel conditions across the Mid-South. While the most severe precipitation has moved out of the region, the Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and local officials warn that roads remain hazardous. Residential and secondary streets are particularly impacted by what officials describe as "immovable ice blocks," formed by the combination of sleet and freezing temperatures over the weekend. Commuters are advised to avoid unnecessary travel as the thaw is expected to be slow and uneven.

MATA Operating on Limited Snow Routes

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) has activated its Winter Weather Safety Plan for today. Due to ongoing road safety concerns, transit services are significantly reduced. Public transport will only be available on 12 specific snow routes from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., provided road conditions allow. The active routes for today include:

• Route 1 - Union
• Route 2 - Madison
• Route 8 - Chelsea and Highland
• Route 11 - Frayser
• Route 36 - Lamar
• Route 39 - South Third (Note: This route will end at Shelby Drive due to icy conditions)
• Route 40 - Stage and Lauderdale
• Route 42 - Crosstown
• Route 50 - Poplar
• Route 52 - Jackson
• Route 53 - Summer
• Route 57 - Park

Commuters should note that MATAPlus service is suspended for today, and there will be no trolley service or Ready! by MATA operations. MATA transit centers, including Hudson, Airways, and American Way, will remain open until 4:30 p.m. to assist patrons.

Major Arteries and Regional Interstate Updates

The Mississippi Department of Transportation (MDOT) has successfully reopened portions of I-55 and I-22 in North Mississippi that were closed due to ice accumulation earlier this week. However, lanes remain slick, and ice removal crews are still active near the Tennessee state line. In Memphis, TDOT has begun launching pothole repair teams to address the damage caused by the freeze-thaw cycle. Drivers on I-40 and I-240 should watch for slow-moving maintenance vehicles and remain in the cleared lanes to avoid debris and slush.

Warming Center Transportation

For those requiring assistance, MATA is providing special transportation today to 24-hour warming centers. Shuttles are scheduled to depart at 10:00 a.m. from sites in Frayser-Raleigh (to Ed Rice), Gaston (to Orange Mound), and Gaisman (to Orange Mound) to ensure vulnerable residents have a safe way to escape the freezing temperatures.