State of Emergency Declared: Hazardous Road Conditions and Major Closures Across Memphis

Winter Storm Alert: Travel Discouraged Across the Mid-South

Memphis has entered a State of Emergency as of Saturday, January 24, 2026, as a catastrophic winter storm moves through the region. Mayor Paul Young and officials from Memphis Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) have issued urgent warnings for residents to stay off the streets. The current weather event, which began late Friday night, is drawing comparisons to the historic 1994 ice storm, with significant accumulations of snow, sleet, and freezing rain paralyzing the city's infrastructure.

Major Arteries and Interstate Conditions

The Tennessee Department of Transportation (TDOT) and City of Memphis Public Works have activated their emergency response plans. While crews began applying brine to priority routes earlier this week—covering approximately 330 miles of roadway—the rapid accumulation of ice and sleet has made many major arteries nearly impassable. Commuters should be aware of the following conditions:

• I-40 and I-240 Loop: Heavy snow and sleet have reduced visibility and traction. TDOT reports that while one lane in each direction is being prioritized for clearing, high-speed travel is impossible. Multiple accidents have been reported near the I-240 and Poplar interchange.
• I-55 and the Mississippi River Bridge: The bridge remains a high-risk area for ice accumulation. Motorists are advised that lane closures are in effect to allow for salt and sand distribution. Ongoing construction at the I-55/Crump Boulevard interchange has further complicated navigation in this sector.
• Lamar Avenue (US-78): Significant delays are reported due to stalled freight vehicles struggling with slick conditions. Heavy congestion is expected to persist throughout the day.

Public Transit and MATA Updates

The Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) has moved to an inclement weather service plan. Many standard routes are currently experiencing significant delays or total suspensions due to hazardous street conditions. Passengers are encouraged to check the real-time tracking systems before attempting to travel, though the general advice remains to avoid all non-essential transit. Several of the 24 newly modified routes introduced earlier this month are operating on limited "lifeline" schedules to ensure emergency access for essential workers only.

Memphis International Airport and Logistics

Travelers heading toward Memphis International Airport (MEM) face extreme risks. While airport crews are working to keep runways open for critical cargo operations, including the FedEx World Hub, commercial flight cancellations are exceeding 1,000 for the region. Access roads to the airport, particularly Winchester Road and Plough Boulevard, are extremely slick despite constant treatment.

Safety Recommendations for Saturday

City officials recommend that any resident who must be on the road carries an emergency kit, including blankets and a charged mobile device. If your vehicle becomes stranded, stay with the car and call for emergency assistance. For those without heat or safe shelter, warming centers have been opened at First Baptist Church on East Parkway North, with coordinated transportation available for those in need.