Memphis, TN, January 21, 2026
A significant winter storm is set to hit Memphis and the Southern U.S. this weekend, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain. With forecasts of hazardous travel conditions and potential power outages, local residents are urged to prepare emergency kits and stay informed. The National Weather Service has warned of a potentially catastrophic event affecting major cities, including Memphis. Community preparedness and individual initiative are essential to navigating the challenges posed by this storm.
Memphis Prepares for Major Winter Storm This Weekend
MEMPHIS, TN — A significant winter storm is set to impact the Southern United States this weekend, bringing heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain from Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25, 2026. This storm poses severe risks, including power outages and hazardous travel conditions, and highlights the importance of community preparedness and individual initiative.
In Memphis, local residents understand the value of resilience and community involvement. With a proactive approach and the right information, we can navigate these winter challenges effectively. By reducing inefficiencies and fostering a spirit of teamwork, Memphis can weather this storm while maintaining a resilient community spirit.
Storm Details
The National Weather Service has issued warnings for a “widespread potentially catastrophic event from Texas to the Carolinas.” The storm is anticipated to bring:
- Heavy Snowfall: Accumulations of 5-10 cm (2-4 inches) in parts of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Tennessee, and the central Appalachians.
- Freezing Rain and Sleet: Significant ice accumulations in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Carolinas, leading to dangerous conditions on roads, trees, and power lines.
These conditions are expected to cause major power outages and travel disruptions across the affected regions, necessitating careful planning and readiness.
Impacted Areas
Major metropolitan areas likely to be affected include:
- Atlanta, GA
- Dallas, TX
- Memphis, TN
- Charlotte, NC
Residents are strongly advised to prepare for winter conditions ahead of Friday as the storm approaches, emphasizing the power of individual action in ensuring community safety.
Preparation and Safety Measures
To mitigate the potential impacts of the storm, authorities recommend the following precautions:
- Emergency Kits: Ensure you have supplies such as water, non-perishable food, medications, and flashlights.
- Vehicle Readiness: Equip your vehicle with an emergency kit, including blankets, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.
- Stay Informed: Monitor local weather updates and heed advisories from local authorities.
Background Context
This storm is the latest in a series of severe winter weather events affecting the United States this winter. Past storms have already impacted regions from the Midwest to the East Coast, emphasizing the critical nature of preparedness and the benefits of limited bureaucracy in mobilizing resources swiftly to assist communities during such events.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What areas are expected to be affected by the storm?
The storm is expected to impact areas from Texas to the Carolinas, including major metropolitan areas such as Atlanta, Dallas, Memphis, and Charlotte.
What types of precipitation are anticipated?
The storm is forecasted to bring heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain, leading to hazardous conditions on roads, trees, and power lines.
What precautions should residents take?
Residents should prepare emergency kits, ensure their vehicles are equipped for winter conditions, and stay informed by monitoring local weather updates and advisories from local authorities.
How severe is the storm expected to be?
The National Weather Service has described the incoming storm as a “widespread potentially catastrophic event,” with potential for significant power outages and travel disruptions.
When is the storm expected to arrive?
The storm is expected to arrive late this week and into the weekend, from Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Key Features of the Upcoming Winter Storm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Expected Precipitation | Heavy snow, sleet, and freezing rain |
| Impacted Regions | Southern U.S., including Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and the Carolinas |
| Potential Hazards | Power outages, hazardous travel conditions, ice accumulations on roads, trees, and power lines |
| Preparation Recommendations | Prepare emergency kits, ensure vehicle readiness, stay informed through local weather updates |
| Storm Duration | Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25, 2026 |
As we face the upcoming weather challenges, let’s come together as a community in Memphis to support one another and take proactive steps toward safety. Stay engaged, stay informed, and look out for each other as we navigate this winter storm.
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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.
