Cold Snap Hits Memphis: Prepare for Freezing Temperatures and Protect Your Pets and Plants!

Cold Snap Hits Memphis: What You Need to Know!

Hey there, Memphis! It looks like winter is finally throwing its weight around as temperatures are set to take a serious dip starting Tuesday morning. If you thought a light jacket was enough, think again! We’re talking about a mighty chill with some areas waking up to a brisk teens degree range!

Bundle Up, We’re in for a Freeze!

WREG’s Chief Meteorologist Tyler Eliasen is sounding the alarm! Most folks around Memphis can expect temperatures to plummet into the lower and mid-20s. If you happen to live east of the city, keep an eye out for potential snow flurries as the temperatures edge into the upper teens. And brace yourself for the afternoon as it might struggle to touch 40°F!

Need a Warm Place? Hospitality Hub Is Open!

If you find yourself out in the cold or know someone who might, remember that the Hospitality Hub on Washington Avenue is opening its doors tonight to help people warm up. And it gets even better—MATA is providing transportation to this warming center. Just give them a call at 901-297-1680 to schedule a pickup. Nobody should be left out in the cold!

Protect Your Plants!

Now, let’s talk about your garden. With these frigid temps looming, it’s crucial to show some love to your summer plants and warm-season veggies! Dr. Chris Cooper from the UT-TSU Extension suggests covering any plants you wish to save. Here’s the deal—annual plants probably won’t make it through this cold snap. Some perennials might, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. If you’re unsure, go ahead and cover them up!

Dr. Cooper recommends bringing small potted plants into your garage or home. For your outdoor plants, grab a sheet or blanket for protection. Just make sure that the sheet doesn’t touch the foliage. Maybe prop it up with a PVC pipe or stick to keep it elevated. Also, let the sheet drop all the way to the ground to capture that precious ground heat. It can make a world of difference for your plants!

Watch Your Grass!

And speaking of grass, much of the turf grass in Shelby County is warm-season and has already felt the effects of early frosty mornings. If you’ve been to Tom Lee Park lately, you might have noticed that the grass has already gone dormant. Time to give it a break until the warmer weather rolls back in!

Your Furry Friends Need Protection Too!

Let’s not forget about our four-legged companions! The Humane Society of Memphis and Shelby County highly recommends bringing your pets indoors when temperatures take a nosedive like this. The American Veterinary Medical Association even suggests that when temperatures drop below 32°F, it’s time to keep those furry friends inside to prevent serious issues like frostbite and hypothermia.

Wrapping Up!

Stay warm and stay safe, Memphis!