MEMPHIS, Tenn. – Early risers across the Mid-South could wake to near-record cold temperatures Wednesday morning, as clear skies and light winds allow overnight conditions to dip well below normal for late August.
According to the National Weather Service in Memphis, record lows dating back to the 1940s and 1950s may be tied or broken in several cities. Memphis is forecast to reach 59 degrees, just one degree warmer than its record of 58 set in 1945. Jackson is expected to drop to 53 degrees, matching its 1958 record low. Jonesboro could hit 55, close to the record of 53 from 1917, while Tupelo may bottom out at 56, near its 1945 mark of 56.
The agency notes that clear skies and calm winds will allow heat to escape quickly overnight, increasing the chance of record-setting chill. While the cool start may be refreshing, residents are urged to prepare for a sharp temperature swing, as afternoon highs are still expected to rebound into the low to mid-80s…