The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued a Special Weather Statement warning of continued hazardous travel conditions and increased risks due to persistent cold temperatures and power outages across the Mid-South. Residents are urged to brace for icy roadways and dangerous driving conditions as temperatures stay sub-freezing, according to the National Weather Service.
As stated by the NWS, even though treatments are applied, black ice—a transparent and nearly invisible form of ice—can develop on the roads, making travel treacherous. Ice and snow cover remain a significant issue, especially on secondary roads, making travel virtually impossible in many areas. The weather service advises avoiding all non-essential travel.
In addition, the Special Weather Statement outlines recommended safety actions for residents to heed during outages. It is important to never use outdoor heating equipment like gas and charcoal grills or camping stoves indoors, as they emit deadly carbon monoxide, suggested operating generators outdoors only. Citizens are also reminded to keep homes insulated by closing curtains and stuffing towels or rags in cracks under doors to conserve heat.
With the forecast of patchy dense fog and a slight chance of freezing rain following days of frigid weather, concerns over unsafe road conditions are far from over. The NWS suggests wearing layers of loose-fitting, lightweight clothing to retain body heat and checking on neighbors, particularly the elderly and those who live alone or have lost power, to ensure they are safe and warm during the ongoing cold snap.
Looking ahead, the NWS predicts that weather conditions will gradually improve, with the area expecting mostly sunny skies and higher temperatures in the coming days. However, chances of precipitation, including flurries and rain, persist into the next week. Motorists should remain vigilant and keep emergency supplies in their vehicles, including flashlights, food, and water, if they need to travel.
