News Summary

Memphis is experiencing warm, sunny weather but should brace for potential overnight storms that could bring damaging winds and hail. A tornado watch is in effect for the area, with severe thunderstorms predicted later in the night. Residents are advised to stay alert as weather conditions may lead to impactful changes affecting local events and plans.

Memphis Faces Overnight Storm Threat Following Sunny Wednesday

Memphis is experiencing warm, sunny weather on Wednesday with temperatures climbing near 85°F, but residents should prepare for potential overnight storms that could bring damaging winds and hail. A tornado watch has been issued for parts of the Mid-South, including the Memphis area, effective until 8 p.m. tonight.

Throughout Wednesday, predominantly clear skies are expected with a slight chance of a stray shower or thunderstorm. Winds are coming from the west-northwest at 10 to 15 mph, with current wind speeds reported at 10 mph. As temperatures drop in the evening, the low is projected to be around 62°F, with winds shifting from the north at 5 to 10 mph.

Storm Threat Details

Weather forecasts indicate that as the day progresses, rain chances will remain relatively low, below 10% until late Wednesday night into early Thursday. However, forecasters warn that severe thunderstorms are expected to move towards the Memphis area on May 20, 2025, posing a risk of large hail and damaging winds. The National Weather Service has highlighted an enhanced risk of severe storms rated at 3 out of 5, effective from 2 p.m. to 11 p.m. today.

Tornado Warnings and Alerts

This afternoon, a tornado warning was issued for regions including Jackson, Medina, and Three Way until 4 p.m., following reports of an observed tornado just north of Jackson around 3:30 p.m. An earlier EF-1 tornado touched down in DeSoto County on May 18, briefly leaving nearly 8,000 residents without power, illustrating the potential severity of storms in the region.

Current Weather Conditions

As of May 21, 2025, temperatures in the Mid-South have risen to the low 80s during the afternoon, making for a notably pleasant day as residents anticipate the arrival of the evening storms. At Memphis International Airport, the temperature has reached 80°F, with humidity levels recorded at 79% and wind speeds reaching up to 30 mph earlier in the day.

Plans Affected by Weather

Due to the threat of severe weather, Dyersburg High School has rescheduled its graduation ceremony to Saturday morning, emphasizing the impact of these weather alerts on local events.

Looking Ahead

Following the expected storms, forecasts suggest that temperatures will remain below average with a low chance of rain extending into the weekend. Residents are encouraged to stay alert for further weather updates and to take necessary precautions as storms approach.

In summary, while Memphis enjoys a warm and sunny Wednesday, the looming threat of severe weather demands attention, as officials urge residents to prepare for the potential impacts of overnight storms.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Severe Thunderstorms Expected in Memphis Area
Memphis Braces for Severe Weather with Potential Tornadoes
Memphis Weather Update: Thunderstorms Expected
Oxford, Mississippi Faces Significant Damage Following Storm
Severe Thunderstorm Causes Destruction in Lafayette County
Severe Weather Alerts in Western Lafayette County
Record Rainfall Causes Severe Flooding Across Mid-South
Central US Faces Severe Weather and Flooding Risks
High Winds Cause Damage in Oxford, Mississippi
Oxford Receives $77,000 in Tourism Grants

Additional Resources

• Fox 13 Memphis: Two Rounds of Severe Weather
• Commercial Appeal: Tornado Watch in Memphis
• Fox 13 Memphis: All of Mid-South Under Tornado Watch
• Wikipedia: Severe Weather
• Fox 13 Memphis: Warm Stormy Weekend Ahead
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Tornado

Author: STAFF HERE OXFORD WRITER

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