Memphis rolled into Friday under partly cloudy skies and a mild 66°F, but the thermostat is not staying polite for long. Temperatures are on track to surge toward 89°F this afternoon, brushing up against near-record heat before a sharp cold front barrels in Saturday and flips the script to much cooler weather.
Afternoon Heat And Gusty South Winds
A steady south-southwest breeze of 5 to 15 mph will help crank temperatures into the upper 80s, with many spots near 89°F Friday. That is hotter than forecasts earlier this month, so anyone banking on a milder stretch may be in for a rude surprise.
The humidity will be noticeable but not unbearable for shorter stints outside. Still, those gustier pockets from late morning through the afternoon will make it feel warmer and could send lightweight items on the patio migrating to the neighbor’s yard. Secure loose furniture, trash bins, and anything else that does not handle wind well.
Storms Saturday Then A Big Cooldown
According to the National Weather Service NWS Memphis, a cold front will sweep through on Saturday with a high chance of showers and thunderstorms, with the forecast probability near 90 percent. Most areas are expected to pick up between a quarter and a half inch of rain.
Saturday’s highs should top out closer to 75°F before temperatures tumble into the mid 40s by Saturday night. The forecast office also flags fire weather concerns from Sunday through Tuesday as relative humidity drops and dead fuels dry out, setting up a much drier pattern behind the front.
Forecasters expect the strongest storm dynamics to stay displaced from the Mid-South, which should keep the severe threat limited. Even so, localized heavy rain and lightning will be on the table during the storm window.
How To Prepare
Stay hydrated, dress for the heat, and plan outdoor activities so you are not caught outside during the most intense storms. If you have weekend events, be ready to shift them earlier in the day or move them indoors.
Expect gusty winds around the afternoon commute and be prepared for quick-hitting downpours and lightning if storms arrive at the wrong time. Build in extra travel time and slow down on wet roads to avoid slick trouble spots.
Keep an eye on updates from local meteorologists and news outlets through the weekend in case the timing or intensity of storms shifts.
