Showing posts with label climate data. Show all posts
Showing posts with label climate data. Show all posts

Friday, May 3, 2024

April 2024 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

April Climate Recap

The month of April was warmer than normal by almost 2 degrees, a trend repeated across a large portion of the country east of the Rockies. As is typical in April, large temperature swings occurred with high temperatures ranging from the upper 50's to the mid 80's, while lows ranged from near 40 to the upper 60's. Overall, the month was skewed warm through as the temperature reached 85 twice towards the end of the month, which was 12 degrees above normal. Overall, two-thirds of April days ended above average and a record high minimum (warmest low temperature) was set on the 1st (68 degrees), breaking the old record of 66 in 1884.

Departure from normal temperatures for April for the Lower 48 states

Precipitation was over 2.5" below normal for the month (about 55% of normal), despite recording rain on nearly half of the 30 days in April, which is four more than average. Most rain that fell was spotty and light although the wettest period was between the 7th-11th, with nearly 2" of rain falling.  Totals for the month ended up at 3.32" at the airport and 3.82" in Bartlett, while the normal amount for the month is 5.87". 

Severe weather occurred on the 2nd, 7th, and 8th with multiple reports of hail and wind damage. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings were in effect each of those days, while a couple of Tornado Warnings were issued north of the Memphis metro on the 2nd after storms moved out of the immediate area.

Severe weather reports received by the National Weather Service for the month of April (hail shown as pink/white icons and wind damage as yellow icons)


Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 65.1 degrees (1.9 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 73.8 degrees (0.4 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 56.3 degrees (3.3 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 85 degrees (26th & 30th) 
Coolest temperature: 41 degrees (5th & 22nd)
Heating Degrees Days: 93 (37 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 102 (26 above average) 
Records set or tied: Record high minimum broken (68 degrees on the 1st)
Comments:  None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.32" (2.55" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 14 (4.4 days above average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 0.76" (2nd) 
Snowfall: None
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/45 mph (29th) 
Average wind: 10.4 mph 
Average relative humidity: 65%
Average sky cover: 59%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 65.2 degrees 
Average high temperature: 76.0 degrees 
Average low temperature:  55.2 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 86.2 degrees (27th) 
Coolest temperature: 37.0 degrees (22nd) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.82" (automated rain gauge), 3.72" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 15
Wettest date: 0.74" (7th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Northwest/27 mph (11th)
Average relative humidity: 67% 
Average barometric pressure: 29.98 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.06 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 68% 
Average dewpoint error: 2.53 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 63% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

March 2024 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

March Climate Recap

The month of March was warmer than normal by almost three degrees. High temperatures ranged from the 50's to the low 80's, while lows ranged from 29 to the low 60's. Overall, only 11 days during the month saw an average temperature below normal (as low as 13 degrees below normal), while some days were as much as 20 degrees above normal.

Departure from normal temperatures for March for the Lower 48 states

Precipitation was nearly an inch below normal for the month. The wettest period was between the 14th-15th at 2.12" at the airport, while MWN headquarters in Bartlett saw 1.49" during that time. Totals for the month ended up at 4.90" at the airport and 3.79" in Bartlett.

As far as lingering drought goes, there was continued improvement across the area. Much of the portion of the Memphis metro in west Tennessee is now out of drought status, while northwest Mississippi continues in a abnormally dry to moderate drought, but has also seen improvement in the past month.

Drought conditions as of April 2, 2024 (UNL)


Change in drought conditions over 4 weeks as of April 2, 2024 (UNL)



Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 57.0 degrees (2.8 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 66.7 degrees (2.5 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 47.3 degrees (3.0 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 81 degrees (4th) 
Coolest temperature: 29 degrees (19th)
Heating Degrees Days: 260 (92 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 19 (1 above average) 
Records set or tied: Record high tied (81° on the 4th)
Comments:  None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 4.90" (0.84" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 9 (2.5 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 2.11" (14th-15th) 
Snowfall: None (0.5" below average)
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southeast/55 mph (25th) 
Average wind: 8.2 mph 
Average relative humidity: 65%
Average sky cover: 56%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 57.0 degrees 
Average high temperature: 68.3 degrees 
Average low temperature:  45.6 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 83.0 degrees (4th) 
Coolest temperature: 27.4 degrees (19th) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.66" (automated rain gauge), 3.78" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 7
Wettest date: 1.72" (25th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/34 mph (25th)
Average relative humidity: 67% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.01 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.06 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 71% 
Average dewpoint error: 2.21 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 69% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Friday, March 8, 2024

February 2024 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

February Climate Recap

The month of February was warmer than normal by over six degrees, ranking it the sixth warmest February on record. High temperatures ranged from the 50's to the upper 70's, while lows ranged from near 30 to the mid 60's. Overall, only six days during the month saw an average temperature below normal.

Departure from normal temperatures for February for the Lower 48 states

Precipitation was slightly below normal for the month, with our wettest day coming on the 10th at 1.64", followed closely by 1.27" on the 4th. In total, both the airport and MWN headquarters in Bartlett saw 3.82". A trace of snow fell on the 12th at both stations as well.

As far as lingering drought goes, there was continued improvement across the area. Much of the portion of the Memphis metro in west Tennessee is now out of drought status (or nearly so), while northwest Mississippi continues in a moderate to severe drought, but has also improved in the past month.


Drought conditions as of March 5, 2024

Change in drought conditions over 4 weeks as of March 5, 2024

Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 52.4 degrees (6.3 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 62.8 degrees (7.3 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 42.0 degrees (5.3 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 78 degrees (27th) 
Coolest temperature: 25 degrees (18th) 
Heating Degrees Days: 363 (169 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 7 (5 above average) 
Records set or tied: Record high minimum of 65 on the 27th, breaking the old record of 62 from 1955.
Comments: This month was the 6th warmest February on record. 

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.82" (0.73" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 9 (0.9 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 1.64" (10th) 
Snowfall: Trace (1.0" below average)
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/48 mph (27th) 
Average wind: 9.6 mph 
Average relative humidity: 64%
Average sky cover: 54%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 51.4 degrees 
Average high temperature: 63.5 degrees 
Average low temperature:  39.6 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 78.9 degrees (27th) 
Coolest temperature: 19.7 degrees (18th) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.82" (automated rain gauge), 3.90" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 9
Wettest date: 1.46" (4th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: Trace
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/30 mph (27th)
Average relative humidity: 69% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.02 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.16 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 70% 
Average dewpoint error: 2.80 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 56% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Sunday, February 4, 2024

January 2024 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

January Climate Recap

The month of January was colder than normal as a whole due to widespread snow cover around mid-month. The year started out with high temperatures in the mid to upper 40's, climbing to the low 50's by the 7th and to the 60's on the 11th. It all went downhill afterwards, with snow moving in on the 14th. The resulting snowpack caused temperatures to fall drastically, with highs in the teens and lows in the single digits. Record cold low temperatures were set on the 15th and 16th, breaking records from 1888 and 1927 respectively. Highs rose back above freezing on the 17th & 18th before falling back below freezing for a couple more days. A rapid warm-up resulted in temperatures back in the low 60s by the 24th for a couple of days. A bit of a cool-down followed a cold front on the 26th before highs reached back into the 60s by the end of the month. In sum, 20 of the 31 days in January featured temperatures that were at or below average and only three times since the year 2000 has January been colder.

Departure from normal temperatures for January for the Lower 48 states

Above normal precipitation was recorded for the month with the wettest 24-hour period starting on the 8th, when over 1.75" of rain fell. Of course, the mid-month snowfall was the biggest story, with the entire metro receiving multiple inches of snow from a storm on the 14th-15th. Memphis International Airport officially recorded 3.4", while at MWN Headquarters in Bartlett 5.6" fell. The snowpack lingered for several days, finally disappearing by the 22nd when rain melted and washed away what remained. The rain continued until the 27th, with over 3" falling. Over one inch of rain on both the 23rd and 27th. Dry conditions finally moved back in to finish out the month. For more on the snow event, see our winter storm wrap-up post.

Estimated snowfall accumulation across the Mid-South on January 14-15, 2024 (NWS Memphis)

As far as the drought goes, there was improvement across the metro thanks to a wet month and snowpack for several days. Portions of Northwest Mississippi were still in exceptional drought conditions, while Shelby County improved to moderate drought conditions. Below images show the conditions as of January 30th and December 26th.

Drought conditions as of January 30, 2024

Drought conditions as of December 26, 2023

Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 37.6 degrees (4.5 degrees below average) 
Average high temperature: 45.7 degrees (5.4 degrees below average) 
Average low temperature: 29.5 degrees (3.8 degrees below average) 
Warmest temperature: 66 degrees (11th) 
Coolest temperature: 2 degrees (17th) 
Heating Degrees Days: 841 (131 above average)
Cooling Degree Days: 0 (1 below average) 
Records set or tied: Record low maximum of 14 degrees (15th), record low maximum of 16 degrees (16th)
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 6.63" (2.49" above average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 14 (4 days above average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 1.76" (8th-9th) 
Snowfall: 3.4" (2.2" above average)
Records set or tied: Record daily snowfall of 1.8 inches (14th)
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southwest/49 mph (9th) 
Average wind: 8.2 mph 
Average relative humidity: 72%
Average sky cover: 60%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 36.2 degrees 
Average high temperature: 44.5 degrees 
Average low temperature:  27.0 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 64.5 degrees (30th) 
Coolest temperature: -1.2 degrees (17th) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 7.45" (automated rain gauge), 7.53" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 12
Wettest date: 1.72" (8th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: 5.6" (4.3" on 15th, 1.3" on 16th)
Comments: Snow depth of 5.5" measured on 16th, 3" still remaining on 20th

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southeast/36 mph (12th)
Average relative humidity: 78% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.14 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.24 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 64% 
Average dewpoint error: 2.20 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 67% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Saturday, January 20, 2024

2023 Yearly Climate Review for Memphis, TN

Climate Recap

2023 will go into the history books as the fourth warmest year on record in Memphis with near average precipitation for the year. However, those overall statistics do now tell the entire story, particularly with respect to precipitation. Below is a summary of monthly temperature and precipitation data. On average, spring and summer were near to cooler than average. However, the cool season from fall to winter was much warmer than average. This resulted in an overall annual departure from normal of +1.7 degrees. There were 16 warm weather records set in 2023 and no cool temperature records.

On the precipitation side, with the exception of a dry May, precipitation ran above to well above average. The back half of the year, though, saw that surplus disappear, resulting in severe to extreme fall and early winter drought across the metro, and exceptional drought in north MS. In 2023, NWS-Memphis issued 372 Severe Thunderstorm Warnings, 83 Tornado Warnings, and 54 Flash Flood Warnings for their 5-county coverage area over the Mid-South. 


Precipitation accumulation graphic for 2023, showing total accumulation (green) versus average. (NOAA Regional Climate Centers)


Drought conditions as of December 26, 2023


Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 65.1 degrees (1.7 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 74.5 degrees (1.5 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 55.8 degrees (2.0 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 102 degrees (August 25-26) 
Days that reached 100 degrees for a high: 3
Coolest temperature: 25 degrees (January 31, February 1, March 19-20) 
Days that dropped below 25 degrees for a low: 0
Heating Degrees Days: 2250 (625 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 2426 (112 above average) 
Records set or tiedRecord highs: Feb. 22 (77), April 4 (87 - tied), August 24 (100), August 25 (102), October 24 (86), November 6 (81), November 7 (83), November 8 (84).
Record warm lows: April 4 (68 - tied), June 29 (81 - tied), July 1 (81), August 22 (80 - tied), August 23 (81), August 25 (80), August 26 (80), October 24 (69). No low temperature records were set in 2023.
Comments: January was the 11th warmest on record. February was the 9th warmest on average. December was the 16th warmest on record. December 2022-February 2023 (meteorological winter) was the 7th warmest on record (48.2 degrees). The period September 1-December 31 was the 6th warmest on record. The year 2023 was the 4th warmest on record.

Precipitation 
Yearly total: 55.48" (0.54" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 113 (1.6 days above average) 
Wettest Day: 4.53" (July 21)
Snowfall: 0.2" (2.25" below average)
Records set or tied: June 16 (1.75"), July 21 (4.53").
Comments: January was the 14th wettest on record. March was the 19th wettest on record. July was the 4th wettest on record. The period September 1-December 31 was the 13th driest on record.

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Northwest/69 mph (July 5) 
Average wind: 7.5 mph 
Average relative humidity: 67%
Average sky cover: 52%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 62.9 degrees 
Average high temperature: 74.6 degrees 
Average low temperature: 53.2 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 99.9 degrees (July 1) 
Days that reached 100 degrees (rounded) for a high: 4
Coolest temperature: 22.4 degrees (December 19) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Yearly total: 60.34" (automated rain gauge), 58.92" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 118
Wettest date: 3.78" (January 3) 
Snowfall: 0.3"
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Northwest/47 mph (June 2nd)
Average relative humidity: 73% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.03 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.06 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 67% 
Average dewpoint error: 2.23 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 66% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Monday, January 1, 2024

December 2023 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

December Climate Recap

The month of December was warmer than normal, averaging over 4 degrees above normal. The month started with highs in the 60's, which rose to the low 70's on the 9th, but a cold front moved in and low temperatures dropped to the 20's the following night. Temperatures warmed back to the mid 60's by mid-month, cooling slightly for a few days, then back up to the mid to upper 60's in the lead-up to Christmas. Christmas Day high temperatures were near 60. Temps cooled off the next few days, with the high on the 29th only near 40. By New Year's Eve, highs were near 60 once again.

Departure from normal temperatures for December for the Lower 48 states

Below normal precipitation trends continued in December with only 2.60 inches of rain falling, which is almost 3 inches below the average for December of 5.49 inches. The ongoing drought was exacerbated by the lack of rainfall with much of north Mississippi worsening to exceptional drought status and severe to extreme drought in place for the remainder of the area. The image below highlights the drought conditions as of December 26th, while the second shows the downward trend over the course of the month. Thunderstorms occurred on the 9th with large hail, ranging from quarter to softball size, reported across the northern MS counties in the greater Memphis metro. Severe Thunderstorm Warnings and one Tornado Warning were issued by NWS Memphis that afternoon. 

Drought conditions as of December 26, 2023

Change in drought conditions from November 28 to December 26, 2023

Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 49.0 degrees (4.2 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 58.8 degrees (5.4 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 39.1 degrees (2.9 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 73 degrees (9th) 
Coolest temperature: 29 degrees (11th & 19th) 
Heating Degrees Days: 487 (141 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 0 (2 below average) 
Records set or tied: None
Comments: The average high temperature of 58.8 degrees was 7th warmest on record.

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 2.60" (2.89" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 7 (3.2 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 0.98" (11/30-12/1) 
Snowfall: None (0.2" below average)
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southwest/39 mph (9th) 
Average wind: 7.4 mph 
Average relative humidity: 64%
Average sky cover: 52%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 46.5 degrees 
Average high temperature: 56.9 degrees 
Average low temperature: 36.3 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 71.9 degrees (9th) 
Coolest temperature: 22.4 degrees (19th) 
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 2.12" (automated rain gauge), 2.14" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 8
Wettest date: 0.82" (25th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/27 mph (16th)
Average relative humidity: 71% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.15 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

Average temperature error: 2.17 degrees 
Forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 63% 
Average dewpoint error: 1.96 degrees 
Forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 68% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

----
Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Tuesday, December 5, 2023

November 2023 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

November Climate Recap

The month of November was generally warm and averaged more than a two degrees above normal. The start of the month was below freezing the morning of the 1st, with temps only making it to the low 50's during the afternoon. Temperatures warmed to the low 70's by the 4th, and into the low 80's on the 6th through 8th, but fell to the 60's by the 10th. High temperatures generally remained in the 60's to near 70 degrees through mid-month, dropping back to the 50's by the 21st. On Thanksgiving, we were near 60 degrees, with highs back in the upper 40's to near 50 to finish out the month.

Departure from normal temperatures for November for the Lower 48 states

Below normal precipitation trends continued in November. The ongoing drought improved somewhat in Tennessee, but much of north Mississippi continues to experience severe to extreme drought, with exceptional drought further south.  The image below highlights the drought conditions as of November 28th, and the second one shows the improvement (green) or worsening (yellow) drought conditions. There was no severe weather during the month, although thunderstorms with heavy rain affected the metro on the 20th.
Current drought conditions as of November 28th, 2023

Change in drought conditions from October 31st to November 28th

Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 55.0 degrees (2.3 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 65.4 degrees (2.8 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 44.6 degrees (1.7 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 84 degrees (8th) 
Coolest temperature: 29 degrees (27th) 
Heating Degrees Days: 313 (66 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 22 (10 above average) 
Records set or tied: Record highs on the 6th (81) and 8th (84); record high tied on the 7th (83)
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 3.02" (1.67" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 6 (3.0 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 1.54" (20th) 
Snowfall: None
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southwest/40 mph (8th) 
Average wind: 6.3 mph 
Average relative humidity: 62%
Average sky cover: 47%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 51.5 degrees 
Average high temperature: 64.0 degrees 
Average low temperature: 40.7 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 82.6 degrees (8th) 
Coolest temperature: 26.6 degrees (27th) 
Comments: The high of 80.4 degrees on the 6th broke the previous record high of 78.1 for that day in 2005.

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 2.51" (automated rain gauge), 2.62" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 4
Wettest date: 1.41" (20th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/26 mph (8th)
Average relative humidity: 72% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.15 in.
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

MWN average temperature error: 2.15 degrees 
MWN forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 59% 
MWN average dewpoint error: 2.39 degrees 
MWN forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 69% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

----
Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Saturday, November 4, 2023

October 2023 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

October Climate Recap

The month of October was generally very warm, and averaged more than a two degrees above normal. We started the month in the low 90's, dropped to the 70's by the 4th, then into the 60's by the middle of the month. A gentle warmup followed, with highs in the upper 80's by the 23rd. We finally saw much cooler temperatures on the 29th as a strong cold front moved in, with highs dropping to 49 on the 30th!

Departure from normal temperatures for October for the Lower 48 states

The ongoing drought continued in October with only just above 1.5" of rain for the month (almost 2.5" below normal). The drought was particularly bad in the counties to the south, and creeped northward into most of the Mid-South throughout the month. All of the metro is now somewhere between a moderate drought to an extreme drought. Most of the rain (1.26") occurred at the end of the month. We saw a trace amount on the 4th, 0.3" on the 5th, then only trace amounts on the 15th and 19th, followed by 0.03" on the 27th, 0.29" on the 28th, 0.42" on the 29th, and 0.52" on the 30th. In addition, the Mississippi River at Memphis set a new record low river stage at -12.04' on the 17th, 1.23 feet lower than the previous record of -10.81 set October 21st of last year.



Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 67.0 degrees (2.4 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 77.4 degrees (2.3 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 56.7 degrees (2.7 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 92 degrees (1st) 
Coolest temperature: 33 degrees (31st) 
Heating Degrees Days: 88 (28 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 158 (102 above average) 
Records set or tied: Record high tied (86) and record high minimum (69) on the 24th
Comments: None

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 1.57" (2.41" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 5 (2.5 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 0.94" (29th-30th) 
Snowfall: None
Records set or tied: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: North/40 mph (6th) 
Average wind: 7.4 mph 
Average relative humidity: 61%
Average sky cover: 49%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 63.6 degrees 
Average high temperature: 76.1 degrees 
Average low temperature: 53.3 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 91.3 degrees (1st) 
Coolest temperature: 29.2 degrees (31st) 
Comments: High temp of 91.3 (1st) was a record for that day (since 2005); 29.2 (31st) was a record low for that day (since 2005)

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 1.56" (automated rain gauge), 1.86" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 5
Wettest date: 0.55" (28th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South/24 mph (26th)
Average relative humidity: 72% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.03in. Hg
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

MWN average temperature error: 1.98 degrees 
MWN forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 69% 
MWN average dewpoint error: 2.04 degrees 
MWN forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 69% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Saturday, October 7, 2023

September 2023 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

September Climate Recap

The month of September was generally very warm, and averaged more than a degree and a half above normal. But Mid-Southerners experienced a nice reprieve from the heat during the middle third of the month as "false fall" brought low dewpoints and fairly pleasant conditions following a strong front on the 7th. However, summer returned for much of the last third of the month as temperatures rose above 90 degrees once again on multiple days. No records were set despite the late season heat.


Early signs of drought that began in the Mississippi Delta spread north across the metro during the month as precipitation ended well below average during the climatologically driest month of the year. Most precipitation fell on just a few days in September, with thunderstorms occurring on the 4th, 6th, and 20th. Otherwise rainfall was spotty to non-existent. Storms resulted in Severe Thunderstorm Warnings in north MS (on the 6th) and 20th (Shelby/Tipton Counties). A tree was downed in Memphis on the 20th and a few were taken down in north MS on the 6th. In addition, the Mississippi River at Memphis preliminarily set a new record low river stage at -10.97' on the 14th, a couple inches lower than the previous record set just last year.



Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 77.7 degrees (1.7 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 87.8 degrees (1.8 degrees above average) 
Average low temperature: 67.6 degrees (1.7 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 97 degrees (4th) 
Coolest temperature: 60 degrees (18th) 
Heating Degrees Days: 0 (7 below average)
Cooling Degree Days: 388 (53 above average) 
Records set or tied: None 
Comments: 11 days reached 90°, which is 0.8 days above average for the month of September

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 1.63" (1.40" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 4 (3.1 days below average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 0.97" (6th) 
Snowfall: None
Records set or tied: Record daily rainfall tied (0.97" on the 6th)
Comments: 92% of the month's rainfall fell on just two days

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Northwest/39 mph (6th) 
Average wind: 6.1 mph 
Average relative humidity: 63%
Average sky cover: 41%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 73.5 degrees 
Average high temperature: 86.8 degrees 
Average low temperature: 63.5 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 95.8 degrees (4th) 
Coolest temperature: 53.8 degrees (15th) 
Comments: None 

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 1.32" (automated rain gauge), 1.27" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 5
Wettest date: 0.53" (12th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: None

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: South-southwest/18 mph (5th)
Average relative humidity: 76% 
Average barometric pressure: 30.02in. Hg
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

MWN average temperature error: 1.83 degrees 
MWN forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 76% 
MWN average dewpoint error: 1.77 degrees 
MWN forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 79% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

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Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder

Friday, September 8, 2023

August 2023 Climate Report for Memphis, TN

August Climate Recap

The month of August generally saw temperatures waver every few days from slightly above to slightly below normal. The exception was a string of hot days in the third week of the month, which resulted in four days hitting the century mark and nearly a week of average temperatures 5-10 degrees above normal. Multiple warm temperature records were also set during that late summer heat wave and a string of four consecutive days with temperatures no lower than 80 degrees (August 22-26) tied for fifth longest on record and is the latest (in the year) occurrence of a streak of three or more such days on record. The periodically cooler weather tempered the overall average for the month, which ended slightly above normal. An interesting note though was that that average was driven almost entirely by the overnight lows, which were more than a degree above normal. Average high temperatures for the month were right at average for August. For the period of meteorological summer (June-August), the average temperature for the three-month period of 81.4 degrees ended in the top 25% of all years (period of record: 149 years).


A wet summer to date continued for portions of the Memphis area as multiple rounds of heavy rain tracked across the northern metro during the month, resulting in over eight inches of precipitation in Bartlett. However, southern Shelby County and north MS missed out on much of this, with the airport recording just under three inches of rain for the month (much of that falling during storms on the 9th and 10th). The dry weather in the MS Delta region during both July and August resulted in drought conditions setting in mid-month in those agricultural areas. For the period of meteorological summer (June-August), total precipitation of 16.84" ended in the top 10% of all years (period of record: 152 years).

Departure from average rainfall for the Mid-South in August 2023. The precipitation disparity between northern and southern areas of the metro was stark, as evidenced by 8"+ of rainfall in Bartlett and less than 3" at Memphis Int'l in south Memphis. By the middle of the month, drought conditions had developed in the Mississippi Delta. (NOAA)

An active summer severe weather pattern continued into early August with severe thunderstorms resulting in wind damage on afternoon of the 5th, followed by another round of midday storms on the 9th that brought large hail, damaging wind, and areas of flash flooding in Shelby County. A few strong storms also occurred mainly in Crittenden County on the evening of the 26th as the heat wave was broken by a cold front. 

Memphis International Airport, Memphis, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 82.6 degrees (0.5 degrees above average) 
Average high temperature: 91.4 degrees (0.1 degrees below average) 
Average low temperature: 73.8 degrees (1.2 degrees above average) 
Warmest temperature: 102 degrees (25th, 26th) 
Coolest temperature: 63 degrees (31st) 
Heating Degrees Days: 0
Cooling Degree Days: 553 (25 above  average) 
Records set or tiedAugust 22, (80°, tied record warm low), August 23, (81°, set record warm low), August 24 (100°, tied record high), August 25 (102°, set record high; 80°, set record warm low), August 26 (80°, set record warm low). 
Comments: 18 days reached 90°, which is 2.2 days below average for the month of August

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 2.82" (0.55" below average) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 8 (0.4 days above average) 
Wettest 24-hour period: 2.17" (9th-10th) 
Snowfall: None
Records set or tied: N/A
Comments: More than three-fourths of the total rain for the month fell in a 24-hour period over the 9th-10th. 

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: North-northwest/51 mph (9th) 
Average wind: 6.8 mph 
Average relative humidity: 69%
Average sky cover: 42%

 Click here for a daily statistical recap for Memphis International Airport.
 

MemphisWeather.net Headquarters, Bartlett, TN

Temperature 
Average temperature: 79.6 degrees 
Average high temperature: 90.5 degrees 
Average low temperature: 70.8 degrees 
Warmest temperature: 99.8 degrees (5th) 
Coolest temperature: 58.8 degrees (31st) 
Comments: None 

Precipitation 
Monthly total: 8.20" (automated rain gauge), 8.09" (CoCoRaHS rain gauge) 
Days with measurable precipitation: 8
Wettest date: 3.33" (9th) (via automated gauge) 
Snowfall: None
Comments: Bartlett received over five inches more rain than fell at the airport, or almost 300% of the airport total. In fact, more rain fell on August 9 in Bartlett than the airport received for the entire month. The July-August total for Bartlett was well over 16 inches.

Miscellaneous 
Peak wind: Southwest/28 mph (5th)
Average relative humidity: 79% 
Average barometric pressure: 29.95 in. Hg
Comments: None

Click here for a daily statistical recap for Bartlett, TN.
 

MWN Forecast Accuracy

MWN average temperature error: 1.99 degrees 
MWN forecast temperatures within 2 degrees of actual: 76% 
MWN average dewpoint error: 1.70 degrees 
MWN forecast dewpoints within 2 degrees of actual: 72% 

MWN's forecasts extend out five periods (2.5 days, or roughly 60 hours). Historical accuracy statistics can be found here.

----
Follow MWN on Facebook and Twitter for routine updates and the latest info!
Complete MWN Forecast: MemphisWeather.net on the mobile web or via the MWN mobile app
Download our iPhone or Android apps, featuring StormWatch+ severe weather alerts!
MWN is a NOAA Weather Ready Nation Ambassador Meteorologist Erik Proseus is an NWA Digital Seal Holder