Memphis Weather, Schools, City Council & Pre‑K Funding Update

Memphis, TN — February 6, 2026 — Winter storm impacts continue, public schools closed, City Council advances renaming and pre‑K relief funds kick in.

1. Snow‑related Closures Persist

Memphis‑Shelby County public schools remained shut for a ninth consecutive day as icy and mucky road conditions linger across the city. Local crews have been actively salting major corridors like B.B. King Boulevard and Union Avenue to ease travel risks. Residents are urged to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary and to drive extremely cautiously when they must go out. This prolonged closure underscores the severity of the winter weather.

2. Community Support Amidst the Slush

Despite hazardous conditions, resilient Memphians have been stepping in to assist stranded drivers. Volunteers like Dennis Holder have been spotted helping multiple motorists stuck in icy intersections. His efforts highlight the strong community spirit that’s helping keep residents safe—even when the weather is not.

3. City Council Moves Forward on ‘Hyde Square’

Memphis City Council approved an ordinance to rename a block of Monroe Avenue as “Hyde Square.” The council also advanced revisions to the city’s impasse procedures, though details remain limited. The renaming reflects a focused effort to shape neighborhood identity and honor local heritage.

4. Pre‑K Providers Receive Lifeline

In response to earlier funding shortages, the city committed more than $8 million to local pre‑kindergarten programs. The infusion is expected to prevent several First 8 Memphis providers from closing, boosting early childhood education access during a critical time.

5. Local Leadership Changes Underway

Following the resignation of Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr., the Shelby County Commission is preparing to appoint a replacement. The transition is being managed swiftly to ensure continued representation for the district.

In the midst of challenging weather, the city demonstrates both resilience and responsiveness: from collaborative snow relief efforts and sustained school closures for safety, to civic advances in governance, education, and leadership.

Sources

• https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/01/26/too-mucky-memphians-help-drivers-stuck-snow-across-city/
• https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/01/23/city-memphis-holds-press-event-mid-south-braces-winter-storm/
• https://wknofm.org/show/wknodaily/2026-02-05/wkno-daily-newscast-thursday-february-5-2026