Thawing Out: A Slippery Start and a Field of 650,000 Tulips

Morning Briefing: Resilience in the Bluff City

Good morning, Memphis. As we wake up this Wednesday, January 28, 2026, the city remains gripped by the lingering effects of our recent winter storm. While the sun may be peeking through, the mood across the city is one of cautious recovery. With several inches of snow still coating many lawns and secondary roads remaining treacherous, Memphians are balancing the frustration of another day of closures with the relief that the worst of the freeze may be behind us. Schools remain closed for a third consecutive day, and the quiet hum of a city on pause is the defining sound of the morning. Interestingly, the extreme cold has brought a unique side effect: Police Chief C.J. Davis reported that crime across the city dropped by 75% during the peak of the winter weather.

Key Talking Point: Privacy and Participation at City Hall

Even a winter storm could not stop the wheels of local government, though it did move them to a virtual space. In a significant move for civic participation, the Memphis City Council passed a resolution on Tuesday that changes how you interact with your leaders. Citizens who wish to speak at council meetings will no longer be required to publicly disclose their home addresses, provided they present a state-issued ID to officials. This update is being hailed as a major win for resident privacy and safety, removing a long-standing barrier for those who wanted to voice concerns but feared for their personal security. Additionally, the Council is continuing to iron out the fine print on labor dispute processes, a move that will be critical as the city approaches its next budget season.

Feel-Good Story: A Record-Breaking Spring is Near

If the ice has you feeling blue, look toward the Dixon Gallery & Gardens for a reason to smile. To celebrate their 50th anniversary, the Dixon is preparing for a floral display unlike anything the city has ever seen. They have planted a staggering 650,000 tulips—more than double their previous record. While the bulbs are currently tucked under a blanket of snow, they represent a massive investment in the city’s beauty and a literal promise that spring is just around the corner. It is a reminder that even in the coldest weeks of January, Memphis is preparing to bloom in a big way.

Wednesday Logistics: What You Need to Know

• Transportation: MATA is operating on a limited snow route schedule from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Service is restricted to five key routes: Frayser, South Third, Crosstown, Poplar, and Jackson.
• Utilities: MLGW community offices are closed today, but the utility has confirmed they will not disconnect services for non-payment during these extreme weather conditions.
• Education: Memphis-Shelby County Schools and the University of Memphis remain in modified or remote operations. Course registration for the university has been extended to Friday to accommodate those affected by the weather.
• Sports: The Memphis Grizzlies are still scheduled to host the Charlotte Hornets at the FedExForum tonight at 7:00 p.m. Fans are also celebrating the news that three Grizzlies players have been named NBA Rising Stars.