Memphis, Tennessee, January 27, 2026
Memphis, Tennessee is facing hazardous conditions following a severe winter storm that brought a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. The storm led to icy roads, power outages, and school closures across the city. Residents are being advised to avoid travel unless necessary, as recovery efforts continue amidst extreme cold warnings from the National Weather Service. Community safety measures have been implemented, and families are encouraged to stay updated on school and service disruptions.
Memphis Faces Lingering Effects of Severe Winter Storm
Memphis, Tennessee – A severe winter storm that struck the Mid-South over the weekend has left Memphis grappling with hazardous conditions, including icy roads, power outages, and school closures. The storm, which began on January 23, 2026, brought a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to the region, leading to significant disruptions.
Impact on Transportation and Infrastructure
Road conditions in Memphis remain treacherous as temperatures continue to hover below freezing. The accumulation of ice and snow has resulted in hazardous driving conditions, with authorities advising residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary. Efforts to clear the roads are ongoing but have been slow due to the persistent cold temperatures.
Power outages have also affected parts of the city, with utility crews working to restore service. The combination of ice accumulation and fallen tree branches has caused widespread disruptions, and residents are urged to report outages through the appropriate channels.
School Closures and Community Response
In response to the severe weather, Memphis-Shelby County Schools announced the closure of schools on Tuesday, January 27, 2026. The district cited the hazardous conditions and the need to ensure the safety of students and staff. All extracurricular activities have been canceled during this period. Families are encouraged to stay updated through the district’s official communications for further information.
Weather Warnings and Safety Precautions
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for the Memphis area, with wind chills expected to reach dangerously low levels. Residents are advised to stay indoors and dress in layers if they must go outside. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with health conditions, should take extra precautions during this period.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are coordinating with local agencies to address the challenges posed by the storm. Community members are encouraged to check on neighbors, especially those who may be more susceptible to the cold, and to follow guidance from local officials to ensure safety during this severe weather event.
Background on the Winter Storm
The winter storm that impacted Memphis was part of a larger system affecting much of the United States, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to various regions. The storm led to widespread power outages, hazardous travel conditions, and school closures across multiple states. The National Weather Service had issued warnings in advance, urging residents to prepare for the severe weather and to stay informed through official channels.
Looking Ahead
As recovery efforts continue, residents are advised to remain vigilant and adhere to safety guidelines. The city is working diligently to restore normalcy, but the combination of cold temperatures and ongoing precipitation may prolong the recovery process. Community cooperation and adherence to safety advisories are essential during this challenging time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the severe winter storm in Memphis?
The storm was part of a larger system affecting much of the United States, bringing a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain to various regions. The National Weather Service had issued warnings in advance, urging residents to prepare for the severe weather and to stay informed through official channels.
How long are the school closures expected to last?
Memphis-Shelby County Schools announced the closure of schools on January 27, 2026, due to hazardous conditions. Families are encouraged to stay updated through the district’s official communications for further information.
What safety precautions should residents take during the extreme cold warning?
Residents are advised to stay indoors and dress in layers if they must go outside. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with health conditions, should take extra precautions during this period. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and are coordinating with local agencies to address the challenges posed by the storm.
How can residents report power outages?
Residents are urged to report outages through the appropriate channels provided by local utility companies. Utility crews are working to restore service, and reporting outages helps prioritize restoration efforts.
When can residents expect road conditions to improve?
Efforts to clear the roads are ongoing but have been slow due to the persistent cold temperatures. Authorities advise residents to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary and to stay updated through official channels for the latest information on road conditions.
Key Features of the Winter Storm Impact in Memphis
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Severe Weather Conditions | Mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain leading to hazardous travel and power outages. |
| School Closures | Memphis-Shelby County Schools closed on January 27, 2026, due to hazardous conditions. |
| Extreme Cold Warning | National Weather Service issued warnings for dangerously low wind chills in the Memphis area. |
| Power Outages | Utility crews working to restore service after outages caused by ice accumulation and fallen tree branches. |
| Community Safety Measures | Authorities advising residents to stay indoors and dress in layers if they must go outside. |
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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 area—with 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.
