Winter Storm Warnings in Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis sits in the Mid-South, a region where true winter storms are infrequent but can catch residents off guard precisely because they are so rare. Analyzing 13 years of data from 2012 through 2024, the city averages just 2.9 inches (7.4 cm) of snowfall per year — a modest figure that reflects how seldom Arctic air penetrates this far into the lower Mississippi Valley. When snow does fall, it tends to arrive in February, January, or March, with February historically being the most likely month for accumulating snow events.
Notably, Memphis recorded an average of zero heavy-snow days per year over this period, meaning significant single-storm accumulations are genuinely exceptional rather than just uncommon. When a winter storm warning is issued here, it carries particular weight — forecasters do not issue such warnings lightly in a climate where most winters pass with only trace amounts of snow or a brief light dusting.
It is worth understanding that winter storm warning thresholds are not uniform across the United States. The National Weather Service tailors its criteria to regional norms, so the snowfall amount that triggers a warning in Memphis may be considerably lower than what would prompt the same alert in Chicago or Denver. In this part of Tennessee, even a few inches of snow can create serious hazards on roadways and infrastructure that simply are not designed or maintained for regular winter precipitation.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 2.9 in (7.4 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, January, March |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 36.1°F (2.3°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Memphis within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Memphis winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Memphis right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Memphis, Tennessee. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Memphis get winter storm warnings often?
Memphis sees only occasional snow, so winter storm warnings are infrequent, though disruptive snow and ice events do occur. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Memphis?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own. In a lower-snow area like Memphis, warnings can be issued for amounts snowier regions would shrug off.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Memphis?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Tennessee authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Tupelo, MS
- Winter storm warning in Little Rock, AR
- Winter storm warning in Jackson, MS
- Winter storm warning in Nashville, TN
- Winter storm warning in St. Louis, MO
- Winter storm warning in Huntsville, AL
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.