News Summary
Residents of Memphis and surrounding areas are bracing for severe thunderstorms this evening, with the National Weather Service issuing tornado watches and warnings. Damaging winds, hail, and lightning are forecasted, leading to heightened risks for property damage and safety. The early day calm is expected to give way to severe weather conditions later, prompting emergency alerts and preparedness measures for local communities. Residents are urged to stay informed and ready for potential power outages and severe weather impacts as the storm system approaches.
Memphis, TN – Severe thunderstorms are forecasted to sweep across the Mid-South this evening, with the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing a tornado watch and warnings for parts of Memphis and much of West Tennessee until 8 p.m. tonight, May 20. The storm systems are expected to bring damaging winds, hail, and lightning, particularly impacting western Tennessee and northern Mississippi.
Temperatures this Wednesday afternoon are projected to reach the low 80s, with conditions initially calm and mostly clear. However, an “enhanced risk” (3 out of 5) for severe storms has been designated for the region, especially from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. Residents are advised to be prepared for possible severe weather in the latter part of the day.
The current forecast indicates that winds will shift to come from the northwest at 10 to 15 mph during the day, with overnight conditions cooling down to around 62°F. Winds will decrease to 5 to 10 mph from the north-northwest overnight. While the chance of rain remains relatively low at less than 10% until late Wednesday night into early Thursday, the looming storm front poses a significant threat.
Already, the NWS has confirmed that a tornado was observed just north of Jackson, TN, earlier today. Additionally, an EF-1 tornado struck in DeSoto County on May 18, leading to power outages and concerns for residents in the area. This serves as a reminder of the potential severity of the storms expected tonight.
Emergency management officials caution that damaging wind gusts could reach up to 30 mph, posing risks to property and outdoor activities. Lightning strikes also present additional dangers during severe weather events. Residents are urged to stay tuned to local weather alerts and take prompt action to secure their homes and safety as the storm approaches.
In anticipation of the storm systems, the day began with abundant sunshine and calm weather. The early forecast showed a high of 84°F today, promoting activities under clear skies before inclement weather elements arrived later in the afternoon and evening. As the storm front from Arkansas moves through the region, the overall weather is expected to cool down gradually with below-average temperatures returning. Low rain chances are expected to persist until the weekend following this evening’s storms.
As this weather event unfolds, it is essential for individuals in the affected areas to remain vigilant. The NWS recommends having an emergency kit ready and preparing for the possibility of power outages. As thunderstorms can change rapidly, keeping updated through reliable sources of information is advised.
Residents of Memphis and surrounding areas should prioritize their safety as the severe weather warning remains in effect. Monitor weather alerts closely and take necessary precautions to ensure protection against the damaging effects of tonight’s storms.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Two Rounds of Severe Weather
- Wikipedia: Tornado
- Commercial Appeal: Tornado Watch Memphis
- Google Search: Severe Weather Memphis
- Local Memphis: Weather Impact
- Google Scholar: Weather Forecasts Mid South
- Fox 13 Memphis: All of Mid-South Under Tornado Watch
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
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