Statistically, Memphis receives an average of 3 inches of snow per year. This amount extends through the winter and can include several different snowfalls.
The average snowfall in January is 2 inches and the average snowfall in February is 1 inch, while there is so little snow that there is no average snowfall in the other 10 months.
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Many longtime Memphis residents argue that the city used to get more snow than it does today. Theories to explain why this would happen include global warming, the idea that the cliffs of the Mississippi River deflect snow, and the “pyramid theory” that suggests that the Bass Pro pyramid deflects blizzards coming from the west. The latter remains unproven and highly unlikely.
The two largest snowfalls in Memphis history actually happened decades ago, lending some credence to the idea that the city used to see more snow. The first of these snowfalls occurred between March 16 and 17, 1892 and deposited a total of 18 inches of snow on the ground. The second occurred on March 22, 1968 when the city ended up with an impressive 16.5 inches of snow.
What to know about Memphis snow
While Memphis may not receive close to the national average for snowfall (which is 25 inches per year), the city is more likely to experience multiple days of winter rainfall such as ice, sleet, and freezing rain each year. You can certainly expect some winter weather and frosty days several times throughout the year.
In 1994, Memphis was hit by a major ice storm that caused significant damage to trees and power lines, leaving more than 300,000 people without power for days and, in some cases, weeks.
Stay safe in Memphis Snow
When snow or ice is forecast for Memphis, the city closes quickly. So be sure to go to a supermarket beforehand and pick up emergency supplies like bottled water and non-perishable food. Memphis’s power grid is above ground, making it susceptible to snow and ice. So grab the batteries and flashlights in case the power goes out.
