Memphis is waking up to clear skies and about 48°F at Memphis International Airport (MEM) early this morning, with sunny conditions and a high near 75°F on tap for today, Saturday, March 14, 2026. Enjoy it while it lasts. Forecasters say a strong storm system is lining up for Sunday, March 15, 2026, with growing confidence in a window for damaging winds and thunderstorms late Sunday into early Monday, March 16, 2026. Here is what to know about timing, likely impacts, and simple ways to get ready.
Sunday Storm Window and Wind Risk
Sunday, March 15, 2026, is shaping up as the main storm day. Showers are possible in the early afternoon, roughly between 1 and 4 p.m., with storms expected to ramp up from late afternoon into the evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, damaging straight-line winds are the primary threat. South winds are expected to increase to 15 to 25 mph, with gusts up to 40 mph. A Wind Advisory may be issued for parts of the Mid-South. Some storms could also produce hail or brief, isolated tornadoes as secondary risks.
Rain, Rapid Cooldown and Freeze
Showers and thunderstorms could linger into Sunday night, with new rainfall amounts between three quarters of an inch and one inch possible in heavier pockets.
Behind the cold front, temperatures will tumble, with forecast lows dipping into the low 30s Sunday night and falling into the 20s Monday night, March 16, 2026. That makes a widespread freeze likely across much of the Mid-South.
The freeze could damage sensitive plants and may create icy patches on untreated surfaces overnight, so plan accordingly if you are out late or heading to work early.
How to Prepare
Before Sunday afternoon, secure loose outdoor items like lawn furniture, grills, and trash cans that could become airborne in strong gusts. Keep weather and emergency alerts enabled on your phone, and have a simple backup plan in case of brief power outages.
If you need to travel Sunday evening, allow extra time for slower traffic and reduced visibility in heavy rain. Move or cover freeze-sensitive plants ahead of Monday night, and consider checking on neighbors, friends, or relatives who may need help with storm and freeze preparations.
For more background on the developing pattern and earlier forecasts, see the March 9 forecast.
