Memphis woke up to a cloudy, muggy start on Thursday, April 16, with temperatures hovering near 70°F at local stations while scattered showers and thunderstorms slide across the area. The morning commute could be wet and occasionally gusty as the first round of storms moves through, and heavier cells may drop brief bursts of heavy rain. If you have to be out early, you will want an umbrella and a backup plan for anything happening outdoors later in the day.
Timing And What To Expect
Forecasters expect showers and thunderstorms to be likely before 10 a.m. CT on Thursday, April 16, followed by a midday lull and a better shot at more storms late afternoon into the evening. Highs should still climb to about 82°F, and new rainfall totals of three quarters to one inch are on the table in the strongest storms. Southwest winds around 10 mph may gust to roughly 20 knots (about 23 mph) by mid-morning. This guidance comes from the National Weather Service Memphis.
Impacts For Commute And Outdoor Plans
Drivers should be ready for reduced visibility and pockets of standing water during heavier downpours, especially on low-lying roads and underpasses, so plan on extra travel time. Widespread severe weather is not expected, but forecasters note a low chance for a few strong storms Thursday afternoon that could bring damaging wind or hail, so keep an eye on the sky if you will be outside. If you have games, practices, or other events planned later in the day, it is smart to move them indoors or at least have a firm backup plan ready for the evening.
Friday And The Weekend
Heat takes over on Friday, April 17, with temperatures surging into the upper 80s to near 90°F and near-record highs possible during the afternoon. A cold front is set to sweep through on Saturday, April 18, bringing another round of showers and thunderstorms before much cooler, sunnier weather settles in Sunday, when highs should top out near 71°F. The National Weather Service Memphis has the latest timing and forecast adjustments.
Practical Tips
Charge your phone, pack rain gear, and give yourself extra time on the roads, since even short bursts of heavy rain can slow traffic in a hurry. Avoid driving through standing water and head indoors when lightning is nearby; local officials and the National Weather Service will issue watches or warnings if conditions worsen. Check for updates before evening plans and be ready to postpone or move outdoor gatherings if storms start to close in.
