The Big Muddy isn't looking so sunny. The National Weather Service in Memphis issued a gloomy forecast for today with predictions of showers and possibly a thunderstorm raging before noon, then just a sad drizzle hanging between 11am and 1pm. Temperatures will be milder, topping off near 69 degrees, but blustery winds from the north northwest at 15 to 25 mph will have gusts cutting through as high as 35 mph. Those winds aren't just chilling – they're whipping up trouble, with the NWS warning of a 90% chance rain will pour down on your parade with new precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
When the night falls, clarity returns, with skies clearing up and temperatures dipping to a cooler 47 degrees. The howling winds will dial down to a west northwest breeze flowing at 10 to 15 mph. But don’t get too cuddly with those calm skies. The NWS forecasts a sunny rebound on Friday, with no rain to speak of and highs flirting with 68 degrees, as the wind shifts to a friendlier west northwest whisper at 10 to 15 mph.
Come Friday night, it’s clear sailing with lows expected around a nippy 50 – perfect for those fond of the night’s crisp embrace. And in a capricious shift, Mother Nature seems to be feeling generous, tossing us a bone with a sun-drenched Saturday and highs ramping up to 79 degrees that will likely have Memphians donning shorts and shades.
Hold onto your hats, though. The weekend may be bright, but the wind isn't giving up just yet. The NWS has still got a wind advisory in effect that'll last until 5 PM CDT this afternoon. Predicted northwest winds of 20 to 30 mph with guts—uh, gusts—up to a ferocious 45 mph, expect a tussle with Mother Nature if you’re brave enough to step outside. These rogue zephyrs mean business, threatening to take loose objects for an involuntary joyride and send tree limbs on an unplanned descent. As a result, a few unfortunate folks may find themselves without power.
In these blustery times, extra care is advised when driving, especially if your chariot is of the high-profile sort. The NWS advises securing any outdoor objects that might fancy a flight, as the winds are known to be an unkind thief. Remember, discretion is the better part of valor when dealing with nature's whims.
