Memphis, Tennessee boasts a diverse climate, with a mix of hot, humid summers and mild winters.
The hottest month in Memphis is July, with average highs reaching 91°F and lows around 74°F.
The city sees its coolest weather in January, when temperatures drop to an average low of 34°F and rise to a high of 50°F.
This makes the state a year-round destination for travelers seeking seasonal variety.
During the summer months of June through August, temperatures can climb, with highs ranging from 83.3°F to 88.7°F.
Despite the heat, Memphis enjoys ample sunshine, allowing residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities.
The spring months of March, April, and May bring moderate temperatures, making it an ideal time to experience the local culture and attractions.
In contrast, the winter season, from November to February, is characterized by milder weather.
Memphis’s winter days typically have highs below 57°F, offering a comfortable escape from the more extreme cold found in other parts of the United States.
The city’s climate is perfect for those looking to explore a regional variety of weather throughout the year. For more detailed articles on regional climates, you can visit ChaseDay.
Average Temperature In Memphis, Tennessee
In Memphis, July is the hottest month. Average highs reach about 91°F, with lows around 74°F.
January is the coldest month. Average highs are about 50°F, while lows typically drop to 34°F.
The cooler season lasts from late November to late February. During this time, high temperatures stay below 57°F.
Here’s a quick snapshot of average monthly temperatures:
| Month | Average High (°F) | Average Low (°F) |
|---|---|---|
| January | 50°F | 34°F |
| February | 55.5°F | 36.7°F |
| March | 64°F | 45°F |
| April | 74°F | 54°F |
| June | 89°F | 69°F |
| July | 91°F | 74°F |
| August | 91°F | 73°F |
| September | 84°F | 66°F |
| October | 73°F | 54°F |
| November | 61°F | 43°F |
| December | 52°F | 36°F |
In February, the average temperature is around 46°F. This aligns with general trends for average temperature in Memphis during this period.
Summers in Memphis, especially June through August, are warm with average highs ranging from 83.3°F to 88.7°F.
The dry season generally doesn’t last long, and the weather includes many sunny days even in the hottest months.
Average Precipitation In Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis experiences a mix of rainfall and occasional snow throughout the year. The city has distinct wet and dry months, with varying levels of precipitation.
Average Rainfall In Memphis, Tennessee
Rainfall in Memphis is spread out across the year, with some months being wetter than others. The wettest month is typically May, with an average of 5.5 inches of rainfall.
This is followed closely by December, which also sees significant rainfall. On the other hand, August tends to be the driest month, receiving around 2.9 inches of rain.
The average annual rainfall is about 54 inches.
Rain showers are common, often combined with thunderstorms during the summer months.
Monthly rainfall can vary, but consistency ensures regular water availability throughout the year. The mild winters also contribute to fairly balanced precipitation levels.
Average Snow In Memphis, Tennessee
Snowfall is less common compared to rainfall in Memphis. On average, the city receives about 3.8 inches of snow annually.
The coldest month, January, usually sees the highest snowfall.
While not frequent, when snow does occur, it can disrupt daily activities due to the city’s lack of heavy snowfall preparation.
Usually, Memphis experiences snowfall in short bursts rather than prolonged periods. February may also occasionally see some snow. These months have the city’s lowest temperatures, which can dip close to freezing.
Despite rare heavy snowfalls, even small amounts are noteworthy events in the area.
Average Sun In Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis experiences a favorable amount of sunshine throughout the year, providing plenty of bright days. The city enjoys varying daylight hours and solar energy, contributing to its pleasant weather patterns.
Average Daily Shortwave Solar Energy In Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis receives a significant amount of daily shortwave solar energy. On average, the city gets about 4.7 kWh per square meter per day. This varies by season, with summer months usually seeing higher values.
Winter: During winter, the average daily shortwave solar energy is lower due to shorter days and increased cloud cover. On average, it is around 3.9 kWh/m² daily.
Summer: In contrast, summer brings longer daylight hours and clear skies, boosting the average to about 5.6 kWh/m² per day.
The extended daylight and high sun angles are key factors in this increase.
Spring and Fall: These transitional seasons provide moderate solar energy, averaging around 4.5 to 5.0 kWh/m² daily.
The specific conditions experienced each season significantly influence the daily averages, contributing to Memphis’s overall sunny climate.
Average Humidity In Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis experiences varying humidity levels throughout the year. The city has an average annual humidity of 67%.
The most humid month is September, with an average humidity of 71%. This can lead to a damp and sticky feeling during this time. Visitors might feel uncomfortable outdoors due to the higher moisture in the air.
April is the least humid month, with an average humidity of 63%.
During this period, the air feels drier and more comfortable. This makes April a popular time for outdoor activities and events.
| Month | Humidity (%) |
|---|---|
| January | 68% |
| February | 66% |
| March | 65% |
| April | 63% |
| May | 67% |
| June | 68% |
| July | 69% |
| August | 70% |
| September | 71% |
| October | 69% |
| November | 67% |
| December | 68% |
Humidity levels are measured at Memphis International Airport. This ensures consistency and accuracy in the data collected.
Higher humidity means more moisture in the air. This can make hot temperatures feel even hotter and cold temperatures feel colder. It’s important to consider humidity when planning activities, especially in extreme weather conditions.
Average Wind In Memphis, Tennessee
The average wind speed in Memphis varies throughout the year.
During the windiest month, March, Memphis experiences average wind speeds of around 14 mph.
In contrast, the wind speeds are generally lower in the summer months.
Wind Speed by Season
- Spring (March to May): Memphis sees some of its highest wind speeds in spring. March stands out as the windiest month with around 14 mph.
- Summer (June to August): Wind speeds decrease, averaging around 7-9 mph.
- Fall (September to November): Wind speeds begin to increase again, with averages between 9-11 mph.
- Winter (December to February): Wind speeds remain moderate, averaging around 10-12 mph.
Seasonal Wind Chart
| Season | Average Wind Speed |
|---|---|
| Spring | 10-14 mph |
| Summer | 7-9 mph |
| Fall | 9-11 mph |
| Winter | 10-12 mph |
Average Air Quality In Memphis, Tennessee
The air quality in Memphis, Tennessee can vary throughout the year. The city’s air quality is typically measured using the Air Quality Index (AQI), a scale that runs from 0 to 500. Lower AQI values indicate better air quality, while higher values indicate worse conditions.
In 2020, Memphis had an average PM2.5 level of 8.1 µg/m³. During certain months such as June, air quality readings ranged between 12.1 and 35.4 µg/m³, which is considered “moderate.”
In months like May and September, readings were between 10 and 12 µg/m³, indicating “Good” air quality.
Annual AQI Stats
- Good AQI (0-50): Often during May and September
- Moderate AQI (51-100): Common in June
- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (101-150): Rare instances; not typically observed in recent years
Monitoring Locations
Memphis has several air quality monitoring stations, including:
- Butler and Wagner: Lower AQI values, indicating good air quality
- Whitehaven: Regularly monitored for changes in particulate matter
- Shelby Farms: Higher variation, sometimes nearing moderate levels
To get real-time and forecast data on air quality, sources like IQAir and AccuWeather provide up-to-date information.
Memphis also ranks pollutants such as ozone, particulate matter, and carbon monoxide.
Monitoring tools like GAIA sensors provide valuable data points to track these pollutants. This data helps residents plan their activities to maintain a healthy lifestyle amidst varying air quality conditions.
Local updates on air quality can also be found using platforms like WeatherBug, which provide comprehensive and real-time data.
Topography Of Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis is located in Southwest Tennessee, along the Mississippi River. The city spans the coordinates 34.99415° to 35.29350° N latitude and 89.63709° to 90.30837° W longitude.
The average elevation of Memphis is 282 feet, with areas like Nonconnah Creek reaching about 315 feet. The minimum elevation can drop to around 164 feet.
This elevation provides a relatively flat terrain, punctuated by gentle rises and falls.
Elevation Details
| Location | Average Elevation | Minimum Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Memphis, Tennessee | 282 ft | 164 ft |
| Nonconnah Creek | 315 ft | N/A |
The city’s terrain features rolling hills and numerous water bodies.
The surface movement in and around Memphis has shaped its current landscape, contributing to its gentle undulations and flat expanses.
Memphis’ position along the Mississippi River also influences its topography. The river’s floodplain offers fertile, flat lands suitable for agriculture. The river itself serves as a natural boundary on the city’s western edge.
Key Locations
- Downtown Memphis – Located close to the Mississippi River, this area has a slightly higher elevation due to its proximity to the bluff overlooking the river.
- Shelby County – Spanning much of Memphis, Shelby County exhibits variations in elevation from flat river plains to low hills.
- Nearby Natural Features – Features like the Wolf River and the Lowlands contribute to the overall terrain complexity in Memphis.
Memphis’ topography, characterized by its moderate elevations and varied terrain, plays a crucial role in its climate and urban planning.
Extreme Weather Events That Occur In Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis, Tennessee, experiences a variety of extreme weather events throughout the year. These events can significantly impact daily life and require preparation.
Tornadoes are a common severe weather phenomenon in Memphis. Tornado season generally peaks in the spring, but they can happen at any time.
Tornadoes are often accompanied by hail and strong winds, leading to property damage and power outages.
Flooding is another major concern, especially during periods of heavy rainfall. Over the past 30 years, flooding has been one of the deadliest storm-related events in the region. The city’s proximity to the Mississippi River adds to this risk.
Electrical storms frequently occur during the summer months.
These storms can bring intense lightning and thunder, posing a risk to both people and property. Fast-moving storms with intense lightning are not uncommon.
During winter, Memphis occasionally experiences freezing temperatures. The number of days below freezing averages around 3.7 per year.
While not as severe as other regions, these cold snaps can still cause significant disruption. Ice accumulation can lead to hazardous driving conditions and damage to infrastructure.
In addition to these events, intense windstorms are a notable feature of the summer season. These storms can lead to widespread wind damage, especially during peak summer months.
Memphis is also prone to atmospheric phenomena such as strong straight-line winds and blizzards, which can have devastating impacts. Understanding the risks associated with these events is crucial for residents.
Best Time Of The Year To Visit Memphis, Tennessee
Memphis offers different experiences throughout the year, with each season showing a unique side of the city. The best times for outdoor activities and exploring the culture generally fall between the moderate weather periods.
What Is Memphis, Tennessee Like In Spring
Spring in Memphis is from March to June. Average temperatures range between 64°F and 81°F, providing pleasant weather for sightseeing and attending events.
This is one of the best times to visit the city, with blooming flowers and fewer crowds. The famous Memphis in May festival, a month-long event, adds to the vibrant atmosphere. Be mindful of potential rain showers, which help keep the scenery lush and green.
What Is Memphis, Tennessee Like In Summer
Summer in Memphis spans from June to August. Temperatures can soar, often reaching the high 80s to 90s°F.
The humidity can make it feel even hotter, sometimes uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Despite this, summer is a great time to experience the city’s music scene, with many blues and soul events happening. Expect frequent thunderstorms that provide brief relief from the heat.
What Is Memphis, Tennessee Like In Fall
Fall, from September to November, is another favored period for visiting Memphis.
Temperatures range from 55°F to 78°F, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The summer crowds have dispersed, and the city is less humid. Events like the River Arts Festival add cultural richness to the season. The vibrant fall foliage further enhances scenic walks and park visits.
What Is Memphis, Tennessee Like In Winter
Winters in Memphis, from December to February, are relatively mild compared to other regions.
Temperatures range from 30°F to 50°F.
Snow is rare but possible, usually not accumulating much.
This is a quieter season, with fewer tourists and a slower pace.
While it’s not the peak time for tourism, winter has its charm with holiday lights and lower prices on accommodations and attractions.