Sunlight and Shivers: Memphis Braces for a Chilly, Breezy Tuesday

A Cold Snap Grips the Bluff City
Good morning, Memphis. As we transition into Tuesday, February 24, 2026, the primary weather story for the Mid-South is the persistent cold. While we will see a fair amount of sunshine throughout the day, temperatures will remain well below the seasonal average. If you are heading out the door this morning, you will certainly need your heavy winter coat, as the biting air is expected to linger well into the afternoon hours.
The Morning Chill
The early morning hours are starting off exceptionally cold. Temperatures at dawn are hovering in the mid-to-low 20s, with official readings at Memphis International Airport and surrounding areas like Olive Branch dipping as low as 24°F to 27°F. Combined with a steady breeze from the north-northwest, the "feels like" temperature is currently sitting in the mid-teens. Commuters should expect clear, bright skies during the morning rush, but the lack of cloud cover means there is no thermal blanket to trap heat, keeping the air sharp and crisp until late in the morning.
Afternoon Peak and Cloud Transitions
As we move into the afternoon, the sun will work to lift our temperatures, though the progress will be gradual. We are forecasting a daytime high of approximately 48°F. While the morning will be predominantly sunny, we expect a shift toward partly cloudy skies by mid-afternoon. These clouds are not expected to bring any moisture; the probability of precipitation for today remains at zero percent. However, the arrival of these clouds may make the late afternoon feel significantly cooler as they begin to block out the direct solar warming. Residents planning outdoor activities should prepare for a brisk environment despite the visibility.
Brisk Winds and Evening Outlook
Wind is a notable factor in today’s forecast. Sustained winds from the north-northeast are expected to range between 10 and 15 mph, with occasional gusts reaching up to 20 mph. These conditions have led to a localized wind advisory for high-profile vehicles navigating north-south corridors. As the sun sets this evening, temperatures will plummet once again. By 8:00 PM, we expect the mercury to drop back into the mid-30s, eventually settling at an overnight low of approximately 28°F. It will be a clear and frigid night across Shelby County, setting the stage for another cold start on Wednesday.
- High Temperature: 48°F
- Low Temperature: 28°F
- Wind Conditions: NNE at 10-20 mph
- Precipitation: 0% chance of rain or snow
- Sky Conditions: Sunny morning, transition to partly cloudy afternoon