Memphis, on the Mississippi River, receives around 1,340 mm (about 53 inches) of rain a year, among the wetter major U.S. cities, with a fairly even seasonal spread and a spring peak in severe thunderstorm activity typical of the mid-South. The Mississippi itself has a gradual, well-monitored flood cycle tied to rainfall across its enormous watershed, a very different and slower risk than the fast-developing local thunderstorms, sometimes producing tornadoes, that affect the city more routinely each spring. Because these two hazards operate so differently, radar is most useful for tracking the faster local storms. NWS Doppler radar KNQA (Memphis) covers the region.
Learn more: How Does Rain Radar Work? · Open the full Rain Map
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it raining in Memphis right now?
The live radar map above shows precipitation over Memphis, Tennessee in real time. Blue shades indicate light rain, while yellow, orange, and red mark heavier downpours. If no colored echoes appear over Memphis, no significant rain is currently being detected.
How often does the Memphis rain radar update?
The radar refreshes continuously, typically every few minutes, so the map reflects current conditions rather than an hours-old forecast. Press play to animate the most recent frames.
Can I see if a storm is heading toward Memphis?
Yes. Press play on the radar to animate the last few hours of rainfall and watch which way rain cells over Tennessee are moving – the clearest way to judge whether a shower will reach Memphis or pass by.
Is this Memphis rain radar free to use?
Yes, completely free – no account, app download, or sign-up required. It works in any browser on desktop and mobile.