Memphis, December 8, 2025
A devastating house fire on Clarice Drive in Memphis’ Whitehaven neighborhood resulted in one fatality and injuries to a firefighter. The Memphis Fire Department is investigating the cause, while the estimated damage is approximately $74,000. In other news, the Mid-South region is experiencing unseasonably warm temperatures, but a significant cooling trend is expected next weekend. The University of Memphis is finalizing a deal to hire Charles Huff as the new head football coach, and the city is preparing for potential winter weather with a strategic mitigation plan.
Memphis, Tennessee
Tragic House Fire in Whitehaven Claims One Life; Firefighter Injured
On Saturday night, December 6, 2025, a devastating house fire occurred on Clarice Drive in Memphis’ Whitehaven neighborhood. The Memphis Fire Department (MFD) responded promptly to the scene, where they discovered one individual inside the residence who was pronounced dead. During the firefighting efforts, one firefighter sustained minor injuries. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, and the estimated damage to the property is approximately $74,000.
Unseasonably Warm Temperatures Across the Mid-South This Week
Despite the recent tragedy, the Mid-South region is experiencing warmer-than-usual temperatures this week. The National Weather Service has indicated that an arctic cold front is expected to bring the coldest air of the season to the area next weekend, with highs reaching into the 30s and lows in the teens and lower 20s. Minimum wind chill values are anticipated to range from the single digits above zero to the teens. Residents are advised to prepare for a significant temperature drop in the coming days.
Memphis Tigers Finalizing New Head Football Coach
In sports news, the University of Memphis is reportedly finalizing a deal to hire Charles Huff, the head coach of Southern Miss, as their new head football coach. Huff, 42, is expected to sign a five-year contract to replace Ryan Silverfield, who left the program on November 30 to take over at Arkansas. In his first year at Southern Miss, Huff led the team to a 7-5 record and a notable improvement in conference play, finishing 5-3 in the Sun Belt after a winless 0-8 record in 2024. Prior to his stint at Southern Miss, he served as head coach at Marshall from 2021 to 2024, posting a 32-20 record with three bowl appearances. Huff also has experience as an assistant under Nick Saban at Alabama (2019โ20), and has held coaching roles at Mississippi State and Penn State.
City of Memphis Monitoring Winter Weather Forecasts
The City of Memphis is actively monitoring weather forecasts for potential snow and ice this season. A strategic snow and ice mitigation plan is in place, focusing on clearing one lane in each direction on specific routes when wintry weather affects the area. The Division of Public Works operates 15 snow and ice removal trucks and six brine trucks to support this plan. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions and to plan ahead for winter weather events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the house fire in Whitehaven on December 6, 2025?
The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Memphis Fire Department. No official cause has been determined yet.
What are the expected temperatures in Memphis for the upcoming weekend?
An arctic cold front is expected to bring the coldest air of the season to the area next weekend, with highs reaching into the 30s and lows in the teens and lower 20s. Minimum wind chill values are anticipated to range from the single digits above zero to the teens. Residents are advised to prepare for a significant temperature drop.
Who is Charles Huff, the new head football coach for the Memphis Tigers?
Charles Huff, 42, is the head coach of Southern Miss and is expected to sign a five-year contract to become the new head football coach for the Memphis Tigers. In his first year at Southern Miss, Huff led the team to a 7-5 record and a notable improvement in conference play, finishing 5-3 in the Sun Belt after a winless 0-8 record in 2024. Prior to his stint at Southern Miss, he served as head coach at Marshall from 2021 to 2024, posting a 32-20 record with three bowl appearances. Huff also has experience as an assistant under Nick Saban at Alabama (2019โ20), and has held coaching roles at Mississippi State and Penn State.
What is the City of Memphis doing to prepare for potential snow and ice this season?
The City of Memphis has a strategic snow and ice mitigation plan, focusing on clearing one lane in each direction on specific routes when wintry weather affects the area. The Division of Public Works operates 15 snow and ice removal trucks and six brine trucks to support this plan. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about weather conditions and to plan ahead for winter weather events.
Key Features of This Report
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| House Fire in Whitehaven | A tragic house fire on Clarice Drive resulted in one death and one firefighter injury. The cause is under investigation, with damages estimated at $74,000. |
| Unseasonably Warm Temperatures | The Mid-South region is experiencing warmer-than-usual temperatures this week, with an arctic cold front expected to bring colder air next weekend. |
| New Head Football Coach for Memphis Tigers | Charles Huff, head coach of Southern Miss, is expected to become the new head football coach for the Memphis Tigers, replacing Ryan Silverfield. |
| City’s Winter Weather Preparedness | The City of Memphis is monitoring weather forecasts and has a strategic plan in place for potential snow and ice this season, including operating snow and ice removal trucks. |
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Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the areaโwith deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
