Severe Storms, Floods, and Snow Forecast for Weekend Ahead

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Severe weather is on the horizon for the Mid-South as a powerful storm system approaches this weekend, bringing concerns about heavy rain, severe thunderstorms, and the possibility of winter weather next week.

According to FOX Weather Meteorologist Steve Bender, the region is bracing for unexpected weather changes starting Saturday, when a Flood Watch will be in effect from Friday evening through early Sunday morning. The National Weather Service‘s Storm Prediction Center has issued a Level 3 out of 5 severe weather risk for parts of Arkansas, Mississippi, and Tennessee.

“We expect a multi-day outbreak of severe weather,” said Bender. “Damaging winds, tornadoes, and flash flooding are significant threats associated with this system.”

On Saturday, torrential rains are poised to affect the South and Valleys, with rainfall amounts expected to reach between 3 to 5 inches, particularly in areas of southern Ohio and Kentucky. Some locations could even see up to 6 to 8 inches of rain, creating a heightened risk of significant flash flooding.

A Flood Watch has already been issued, categorizing the conditions as “particularly dangerous.” Reports indicate that areas not typically prone to flooding could experience severe inundation. The Weather Prediction Center emphasizes the potential for widespread flooding across the region, particularly in western Kentucky and northwest Tennessee.

The weather forecast also indicates a transition to winter weather early next week. Following Saturday’s storms, cold air will surge into the area, setting the stage for possible snow accumulation on Tuesday night into Wednesday. Highs are expected to stay around the low 30s, with overnight temperatures dropping near freezing.

“We need to remain vigilant,” said Trent Okerson from the Local 6 Weather Authority. “After the rain, we’ll see significantly colder conditions, with a possibility of a snowy recovery from the weekend storms.”

The severe weather is anticipated to develop right over Memphis and the surrounding area on Saturday, with thunderstorms starting by dawn and reaching peak intensity in the afternoon. Factors such as warm temperatures and unstable air mass will contribute to the severity of local storms. CNN meteorologists caution residents to remain alert.

“While there is uncertainty as to how warm it will get, the potential for severe storms depends heavily on temperature and moisture availability in the atmosphere,” Okerson noted. “If conditions align, tornadoes and damaging winds could make their way into the Mid-South.”

Residents are advised not to drive into flooded areas or ignore water warnings, as moving water can pose serious hazards. The Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, along with local officials, urge the public to heed warnings and prepare for potentially hazardous weather conditions.

As local teams prepare, several sporting events this weekend are still expected to proceed as scheduled. Memphis Women’s Basketball will face the University of Texas at San Antonio on Saturday, and Ole Miss Men’s Basketball will host Mississippi State University later that day.

Members of the community are encouraged to stay informed by downloading the latest updates from local weather authorities to receive alerts as situations develop. Weather forecasts will remain continuously updated as the storm progresses.