Sunlight Returns to the Bluff City: A Mild Monday Ahead for Memphis
A Brighter Start to the Week
Memphis residents can finally put the umbrellas aside this Monday, February 16, 2026, as a much-needed dry spell settles over the Mid-South. Following a weekend of soaking rains and gusty winds that left the region saturated, today marks the beginning of a significantly warmer and brighter weather pattern. The heavy storm system that moved through the area on Sunday has cleared out, leaving behind clear skies and a gentle breeze for the Monday morning commute.
The Morning: A Crisp and Clear Start
The day begins with chilly but clear conditions across Shelby County. Morning commuters can expect temperatures to hover in the low 40s, with some areas starting as low as 40°F. While it is a cold start, the absence of the weekend's biting winds makes for a pleasant early-morning drive. Clear skies will dominate the sunrise, offering a bright opening to the work week. With humidity levels still relatively high from recent rainfall, a few patches of light valley fog are possible in low-lying areas, though these should burn off quickly by mid-morning as the sun begins its work.
The Afternoon: Spring-Like Warmth Returns
As the sun climbs, Memphis will see a steady rise in the mercury. Afternoon highs are projected to reach approximately 60°F, a welcome relief from the recent winter chill and well above the average for mid-February. A light southeasterly breeze, moving at roughly 5 to 10 mph, will accompany the sunshine, making outdoor activities highly favorable. This warming trend is just the beginning of a spring-like week ahead, with forecasters from the National Weather Service predicting even higher temperatures—possibly reaching the 70s—by Tuesday and Wednesday.
The Evening and Overnight: Clouds Creep Back
While the daytime remains predominantly sunny, the evening will bring a gradual shift in sky conditions. After sunset, temperatures will drop back toward a low of 42°F. Clouds will slowly increase from the south and west throughout the late evening and overnight hours. While the chance of precipitation remains at 0% during the day, there is a slight 20% chance of a stray light shower after midnight. However, no significant rainfall is expected to disrupt travel or outdoor plans before Tuesday morning.
Safety and Severe Weather Awareness
The National Weather Service has designated this week, February 15-21, 2026, as Tennessee Severe Weather Awareness Week. While today’s forecast is calm and pleasant, local officials remind Memphians that late winter is a historically volatile time for weather in the Mid-South. It is a perfect day to review emergency plans and ensure weather alert systems are operational. Additionally, residents should remain cautious near local streams and low-lying areas. While the rain has stopped, the ground remains heavily saturated from Sunday’s heavy downpours, which may cause lingering ponding on some rural or secondary roads throughout the day.
- High Temperature: 60°F (16°C)
- Low Temperature: 40°F (4°C)
- Wind: Southeast at 5–10 mph
- Precipitation: 0% (Day) / 20% (Overnight)
- Conditions: Sunny skies giving way to evening clouds