Memphis, TN – A relentless blast of extreme heat is gripping the Mid-South, putting millions in Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Missouri, and southern Illinois under dangerous heat warnings through at least Thursday evening. Heat index values are peaking between 110 and 115 degrees each afternoon, prompting urgent alerts for cities including Memphis, Little Rock, Jackson, St. Louis, and Paducah.
According to the National Weather Service, extreme heat warnings now stretch from central Arkansas to southeast Missouri and deep into the Mississippi Delta. Major metro areas such as Little Rock, St. Louis, and Memphis face the highest risk, with advisories covering highways, schools, and critical infrastructure. Roads may buckle, power usage is soaring, and cooling centers are open across the region.
Officials urge residents to drink plenty of fluids, limit outdoor activity, and check on neighbors and relatives—especially the elderly or those without air conditioning. Never leave children or pets in vehicles, where temperatures can become lethal within minutes. For anyone working outdoors, OSHA recommends frequent rest breaks in the shade, lightweight clothing, and monitoring for signs of heat exhaustion or stroke.
This heat wave rivals July records set in 2012 and 1980. Local agencies such as the United Way of Greater St. Louis (dial 2-1-1) and Cool Down St. Louis (314-241-7668) are helping residents find relief. Heat warnings remain in effect through at least Thursday, with updates possible as the situation evolves.
