NWS Issues Winter Storm Watch for Quitman County; Freezing Rain Expected

Freezing rain and sleet are likely to make roads slick across Quitman County this weekend, according to an updated forecast from the National Weather Service Memphis office. The NWS issued a Winter Storm Watch for the Sledge forecast area that remains in effect from Jan. 23 at 12:00 PM CST through Jan. 25 at 6:00 PM CST, and warned of a period of mixed precipitation - rain, sleet, freezing rain and possible snow - beginning Friday, Jan. 23.

The NWS page for Sledge was updated on the evening of Jan. 21, 2026, and includes a point forecast, a zone forecast for Quitman County, and hazard details for the watch. Forecasters flagged elevated risk for freezing rain and sleet Friday night into the weekend, with gusty north-northeast winds that could increase blowing and drifting of wintry precipitation. The forecast also notes prolonged cold with low temperatures near or below freezing (32°F), which can keep treated roads icy for longer periods.

Earlier this week motorists reported limited visibility as patchy to dense fog moved through the area on Jan. 21 and Jan. 22. The fog has since lifted, but it signaled a pattern of moisture and cold air that helped trigger the Winter Storm Watch. The NWS guidance listed ranges for possible light ice accumulations and advised caution for travel; those accumulation ranges and specific hazard details are available on the Sledge forecast page.

Local impacts are likely to include slick and icy roads, higher risk of vehicle crashes, and the potential for short-term service interruptions to utilities and deliveries. Treated routes may refreeze overnight when temperatures hover at or below freezing, complicating morning commutes and school transportation. County public works and emergency services typically contend with these conditions by treating main corridors first, but secondary and rural roads can remain hazardous.

Residents and local officials should monitor NWS Memphis updates and plan for hazardous travel conditions from Friday afternoon through early Sunday evening. Practical steps include delaying nonessential trips during the watch window, checking emergency kits and vehicle readiness, and following guidance from county authorities if road advisories or closures are issued. The Winter Storm Watch is scheduled to expire Jan. 25 at 6:00 PM CST; forecasters may adjust watches and warnings as the system evolves.

For Quitman County, the immediate priority is safety on the roads and maintaining essential services through a brief but potentially disruptive wintry episode. Expect updated forecasts and follow local advisories as the event approaches.