Memphis is starting Wednesday with clear skies and temperatures near 79 degrees, but the calm will not last long. Showers and thunderstorms are expected after sunrise, with a high near 91 and a heat index reaching 102.
Morning Storms Could Disrupt The Commute
The first round of storms is expected mainly from about 7 a.m. through early afternoon, with the overall chance of rain reaching 70%. The storms could bring locally heavy rain, with roughly a quarter to half an inch possible, while damaging wind gusts are the main concern.
A second, more scattered round may develop late Wednesday afternoon and continue into the evening across Memphis, eastern Arkansas and northwest Mississippi. The National Weather Service has placed those areas under a Slight Risk, or level 2 out of 5, for severe thunderstorms.
Storm Chances Fade Before A Hotter Stretch
Rain chances drop tonight, though a few evening showers or thunderstorms remain possible before skies turn mostly cloudy. Wednesday night will dip to around 73 degrees, followed by a sunny Thursday with another high near 91 and a heat index around 101.
Dry weather then takes over for the weekend, with highs near 90 Friday, 92 Saturday and 94 Sunday. The heat builds further Monday and Tuesday, when highs are forecast in the mid-to-upper 90s and heat indices could climb to around 100 or higher.
Plan Around The Thunder
Outdoor plans and travel could face brief downpours, lightning and sudden wind shifts Wednesday, so keeping a way to receive weather alerts nearby is wise. Anyone caught outside when thunder moves in should head indoors, while drivers should be prepared for reduced visibility and ponding on roads during the heaviest rain.
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