News Summary
On July 13, Southaven and East Memphis experienced severe thunderstorms that caused extensive damage and flash flooding. Emergency services reported numerous downed trees and utility poles, particularly affecting Airport Industrial Drive. An overturned tractor trailer was noted due to winds estimated at up to 60 mph. East Memphis faced significant flooding, with Poplar Avenue suffering from deep standing water. Over 4,500 customers lost power, prompting local authorities to enact emergency responses while warnings about potential further storms were issued to residents.
Southaven Hit by Intense Thunderstorms
Brief but intense thunderstorms caused significant damage and flash flooding in Southaven and East Memphis on July 13, 2025. Various reports indicate that the storms knocked down trees and utility poles, leading to overturned vehicles and power outages in the affected areas.
Storm Impact and Damage Reports
In Southaven, emergency responders reported multiple instances of downed trees and utility poles, particularly along Airport Industrial Drive near Airways and Stateline Road. Notably, a tractor trailer was observed overturned due to the strong winds, which local radar estimated may have reached speeds of up to 60 mph.
The storms also caused widespread flash flooding in East Memphis, particularly on Poplar Avenue near Clark Tower, where deep standing water was reported. Rainfall estimates indicated that between 1-2 inches of rain fell across parts of Shelby and DeSoto counties as a result of the storms.
Power Outages and Emergency Response
As a consequence of the severe weather, Memphis Light, Gas & Water reported that more than 4,500 customers were left without power. Local authorities have initiated an emergency response to the situation, urging residents to adhere to weather warnings and take necessary precautions to safeguard their safety.
Access roads in Southaven have been closed temporarily to allow for repairs related to the downed power lines and hazardous conditions caused by the thunderstorms. Citizens are advised to exercise caution while navigating the area as repairs continue.
Looking Ahead
Officials in Memphis have warned residents of the possibility of further flash flooding and additional storm events throughout the week. Local meteorologists have characterized these thunderstorms as typical of summer weather patterns, noting they were strong but of short duration.
Background Context
Thunderstorms are common during the summer months in the southern United States, often bringing heavy rainfall and strong winds. The impact of such storms can vary significantly from one event to another, leading to everything from minor inconveniences to significant damages. The storms that hit Southaven and East Memphis serve as a reminder for residents to stay alert and prepared during the storm season.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WREG: Storms Cause Damage in Southaven
- Fox13 Memphis: Southaven Sees Possible Storm-Related Damage
- DeSoto County News: Pop-Up Storm Downs Trees
- Google Search: Thunderstorms in Southaven
- Freep: Thunderstorms in Michigan Weather
- Wikipedia: Thunderstorm

Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF 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.