Nashville

Nashville Sizzles Into Low 90s As Midweek Storms Line Up

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Published on May 17, 2026
Nashville Sizzles Into Low 90s As Midweek Storms Line UpSource: Jschnake, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Nashville is wasting no time turning up the thermostat. After a cool start in the low 60s this morning, the city is on track for a hot afternoon with a high near 93°F. South winds will crank up by mid to late afternoon, with gusts up to about 25 mph. For many neighborhoods west of the Cumberland Plateau, this will go down as one of the first 90-degree days of the season. The heat hangs on through Monday before a wetter pattern barges in later in the week.

Afternoon Heat And Gusty South Winds

Expect dry, mostly sunny weather through Monday, with south winds around 0–15 mph and gusts as high as 25 mph this afternoon. Tonight stays mostly clear with a low near 70, and there are no watches or warnings in effect for Middle Tennessee at the moment. For background on how this warmup set in, see our earlier forecast cool mornings, steamy afternoons.

Peak Heat From Early Afternoon To Early Evening

Temperatures should top out from early afternoon into early evening, roughly between 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Gusty south winds will make it feel even hotter on sun-soaked patios and dark pavement. Cyclists and anyone on two wheels should be ready for quick bursts of wind at intersections and over bridges, and unsecured lawn furniture may complain a bit. Keep water handy and try to schedule the heavy lifting for the cooler morning or evening hours.

Storm Chances Build Tuesday And Wednesday

Rain chances climb on Tuesday, with isolated afternoon storms possible and a better shot at showers and thunderstorms late Tuesday into Wednesday. According to the National Weather Service Nashville, model guidance and the current forecast discussion show roughly a 40–50% chance that some spots will see an inch or more of rain by Thursday, with locally higher totals possible. Behind the front, highs should slip back into the upper 70s to low 80s toward the end of the week. Check the NWS for the latest timing and rainfall details.

Plan Around The Heat, Then The Rain

If you have outdoor plans for Monday, morning or early evening will be your best bet. Events set for Tuesday and Wednesday may need a solid backup plan. Secure lightweight outdoor items ahead of the gusts, and keep an eye on timing for any outdoor sports, practices, or festivals. Those more sensitive to heat, including older adults, young children, and pets, should stick to standard hot-weather precautions during the midafternoon peak.

We will update this space if watches or warnings are issued. Keep an eye on local media and the National Weather Service for any changes. Stay hydrated and ready to pivot, the drought-relieving rain could show up in earnest by midweek.