Severe Thunderstorms Threaten Memphis Area with Tornadoes

News Summary

Memphis is preparing for significant thunderstorms, including the potential for tornadoes, as forecasts predict damaging winds and large hail. The National Weather Service has issued an ‘enhanced risk’ warning for the region, with storms expected mainly between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Residents are advised to stay informed and have emergency kits ready as severe weather looms. After the storms, conditions are expected to clear by the following day, but caution is still necessary.

Severe Thunderstorms Expected in Memphis Area on May 20, 2025; Tornadoes Possible

Memphis, Tennessee is bracing for severe thunderstorms on May 20, 2025, with official forecasts indicating a potential for damaging winds, large hail, and tornadoes. The National Weather Service has issued an “enhanced risk” (3 out of 5) rating for the region, raising serious concerns among meteorologists and residents alike.

Weather patterns predict a high temperature reaching around 81°F with winds blowing from the south-southwest at speeds of 10 to 20 mph. A significant 80% chance of rain is forecasted throughout the day, particularly during thunderstorms, with scattered showers beginning late on May 19.

The timeframe for the most severe weather is anticipated between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. on May 20, when conditions may shift from scattered thunderstorms to more numerous and severe storms. Winds associated with these storms could gust up to 25 mph, contributing to the potential for damaging weather.

Areas Affected

In addition to Memphis, the severe weather risk extends to eastern Arkansas, northern Mississippi, and western Tennessee. Residents in these areas are strongly encouraged to stay informed and prepared as early as the night of May 19, when showers and thunderstorms could begin appearing.

The immediate concerns for the day include the likelihood of damaging winds, large hail, and the growing threat of tornadoes, as conditions develop throughout the afternoon and evening. Following this round of severe storms, the forecast predicts that most of the severe weather will clear up by May 21, although some rain and occasional thunderstorms may still occur.

Recent Weather Trends

This forecast follows a series of severe weather events across the country, which have resulted in at least 28 fatalities from tornadoes and severe storms. These recent incidents underscore the seriousness of the upcoming weather forecast and the need for vigilance among residents in the affected areas.

The conditions on May 20 present heightened risks, with meteorologists advising the public to closely monitor weather updates and to be ready to take shelter should conditions deteriorate. The severity of storms in this forecast draws attention to the need for both preparedness and responsiveness to evolving weather situations.

What to Expect

As the Memphis area prepares for potentially severe thunderstorms, a general guide for residents includes being aware of local news and weather reports, having emergency kits on hand, and understanding the route to safety should the need arise to evacuate or take cover. The risk of severe weather may necessitate taking proactive steps to ensure personal and community safety.

For the evening of May 20, a return to clear skies is expected with a low of 61°F and winds transitioning to the west-northwest at 10 to 15 mph. However, the lingering effects of the severe weather earlier in the day may still require caution as the area recovers.

With the increasing unpredictability of weather patterns, the Memphis community is reminded of the importance of preparedness and remaining alert as the day approaches. The possibility of severe storms remains a serious threat, necessitating proactive actions for safety and public well-being.

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Additional Resources

• Fox 13 Memphis: Warm Stormy Weekend on the Way
• Local Memphis: Memphis Weather Forecast Impact
• Commercial Appeal: Memphis Severe Weather Forecast
• Wikipedia: Severe Weather
• Local Memphis: Mid-South Severe Thunderstorms
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado