MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The first major cold snap of the season is expected in Memphis and the Mid-South this week, and now's the time to make sure you're prepared for the temperatures to drop.
A cold front will move through on Wednesday evening, bringing rain showers and a drop in temperatures by Thanksgiving. Highs will be in the low 50s on Thanksgiving Day with lows near freezing Thursday night.
Another cold front will pass through on Saturday, dropping temperatures even further. Highs will be in the upper 30s to low 40s on Sunday and Monday with morning lows in the low to mid 20s. Some neighborhoods could fall to the upper teens by Monday morning.
Temperatures have not been this cold in the Mid-South since February.
Preparing for cold weather
Protecting your home
Insulate and Protect Pipes: Disconnect outdoor hoses, cover outside faucets with protective covers, and insulate exposed pipes both inside and outside your home to prevent freezing and potential bursting
Check Windows and Doors: Replace worn weather stripping, install storm windows if possible, and seal any cracks or openings to prevent cold air drafts
Prepare Outdoor Areas: Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice buildup, apply ice repellent to steps and walkways, and bring in potted plants that cannot withstand extreme cold
Drip Faucets: Allow faucets to drip slightly and open cabinet doors to help prevent pipes from freezing during extremely low temperatures
Service Heating Systems: Have your furnace and heating systems professionally checked to ensure they're ready for the winter season
Protecting your car
Check Your Tires: Verify tire pressure and tread depth. Winter temperatures cause pressure to drop approximately one pound per square inch for every 10-degree Fahrenheit decrease
Inspect Battery and Charging System: Have a professional test your car battery to ensure it can handle cold starts. Clean battery terminals and check cable connections to prevent corrosion that might impact performance
Maintain Fluid Levels: Check coolant levels, ensuring a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and water to prevent freezing. Verify other critical fluid levels are appropriate for winter conditions
Test Vehicle Lights and Wipers: Confirm all lights are functioning correctly and replace wiper blades if they're streaking or ineffective. Consider winter-specific wiper blades for better performance
Protecting yourself and those you love
Layer Up: Instead of bundling up in one heavy coat, try wearing several lighter layers. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add some insulating mid-layers like fleece, and finish with a water-resistant outer layer to keep the wind and moisture out
Protect Vulnerable Individuals: Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and those who might need assistance during cold weather
Have a Backup Plan: If your heating goes out or it gets too cold in your home, know where you can go for warmth—like a local library or community center. Also, check on neighbors who might need assistance, especially the elderly
Bring Pets Indoors: If it’s too cold for you to be outside, it’s definitely too cold for your pets. Make sure they are brought inside to stay warm and safe from the harsh weather conditions