Thursday morning, May 21, 2026, is starting out gray in Nashville, with clouds, pockets of patchy fog and temperatures near 70°F at Nashville International Airport (KBNA). Scattered showers are expected to develop later this morning, and the greatest risk for thunderstorms runs from late morning into mid afternoon. Highs should reach about 79°F, and recent rains will keep the air feeling muggy. If you have outdoor plans, keep the rain gear handy and build in some extra commute time.
Morning Fog and Spotty Showers
Patchy fog will hang around through the 7 to 10 a.m. commute, especially near the Cumberland River and in low-lying neighborhoods, where visibility can drop on bridges and highway ramps. Spotty light showers are possible before mid morning, with heavier bands expected later. Drivers should watch for quick changes in visibility and conditions and keep an eye on radar during the morning rush.
Storms, Rain Totals and Wind
Showers and thunderstorms are most likely between about 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., and repeated rounds of rain are expected through the holiday weekend. Around 2 to 3 inches of rain is possible across the area, with localized higher totals in a few spots, according to NWS Nashville. Brief heavy downpours could cause quick ponding on city streets, and stronger storms may bring gusty winds. Gusts up to 25 mph are possible Friday during stronger storms. Widespread flooding is not expected, but localized flooding remains the main concern if storms repeatedly move over the same neighborhoods.
Weekend and Memorial Day Outlook
Rain chances stick around every day into the weekend and through Memorial Day, so this is not a classic blue-sky grilling forecast. Highs climb into the mid 80s on Saturday and Sunday, with Memorial Day reaching the low 80s. Brief dry breaks could sneak in, but they are not guaranteed, so plan on wet conditions for most outdoor events from Saturday through Monday. Between rounds of rain, humidity will bounce back and make it feel muggy.
What to Watch and Local Resources
Plan for extra travel time, avoid driving through standing water, and move outdoor plans indoors if thunderstorms are nearby. Metro Nashville Emergency Management offers preparedness tips and alerts for stormy weather, and residents are urged to monitor local guidance and the National Weather Service before heading out, according to Metro Nashville Emergency Management. If you live in a flood-prone area, consider moving vehicles to higher ground and make sure you have a quick shelter plan ready.
